The CDC has issued a warning and process regarding concussion in youth sports, regardless of the sport. California now requires notification and review of concussion detection and follow-up, for parents and players involved in youth sports. AYSO has created materials and a process in compliance with the CDC.
You may also review the concussion video by the CDC at
http://www.cdc.gov/concussion/HeadsUp/Training/HeadsUpConcussion.html
SIGNS OBSERVED BY COACHING STAFF
- Appears dazed or stunned
- Is confused about assignment or position
- Forgets an instruction
- Is unsure of game, score, or opponent
- Moves clumsily
- Answers questions slowly
- Loses consciousness (even briefly)
- Shows mood, behavior, or personality changes
- Can’t recall events prior to the hit or fall
- Can’t recall events after the hit or fall
SYMPTOMS REPORTED BY ATHLETES
- Headache or “pressure” in head
- Nausea or vomiting
- Balance problems or dizziness
- Double or blurry vision
- Sensitivity to light
- Sensitivity to noise
- Feeling sluggish, hazy, foggy, or groggy
- Concentration or memory problems
- Confusion
- Just not “feeling right” or “feeling down”
WHAT SHOULD YOU DO IF YOU THINK YOUR ATHLETE HAS A CONCUSSION?
If you suspect that an athlete has a concussion, remove the athlete from play and seek medical attention. Do not try to budget the severity of the injury yourself. Keep the athlete out o play the day of the injury and until a health care professional, experienced in evaluating for concussion, says the player is symptom-free and they may return to play.
Rest is key to helping an athlete recover from a concussion. Exercising or activities that involve a lot of concentration, such as studying, working on the computer, or playing video games, may cause concussion symptoms to reappear or get worse.
After a concussion, returning to sports and school is a gradual process that should be carefully managed and monitored by a health care professional.