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What To Do If You Suspect A Concussion?

When In Doubt, Sit It Out

If an athlete is suspected of having a concussion, he/she should be immediately removed from all play, whether it be a game or practice. Continuing to participate in physical activity after a concussion can lead to worsening symptoms, increased risk for further injury, and even death.

Possible signs/symptoms resulting from a concussion:

Headache Nausea Dizziness Visual Problems
Balance problems Fatigue Nervousness Drowsiness
Difficulty remembering Sleeping more than usual Vomiting Lethargy
Trouble falling asleep Sensitivity to light Sensitivity to noise Numbness/tingling
Sleeping less than usual Difficulty with/slurred speech Loss of consciousness Feeling slowed down
Irritability Difficulty concentrating Unequal/dilated pupils Sadness
Feeling more emotional Feeling mentally foggy Confusion Amnesia

What to do next:

• Your child should refrain from physical activity, including gym, recess, exertion activities, contact activities and contact sports until appropriately evaluated and cleared to resume.

• Avoid taking NSAIDs including aspirin, Advil, Aleve. Consult a specialist prior to taking any pain reliever. Rest tends to be most helpful for relieving headaches.

• Avoid anything that worsens symptoms including TV, reading, texting, loud noise, bright lights, etc.

• Avoid 'pushing through' symptoms; limit cognitive or 'thinking' activities and take breaks as needed to help manage symptom load.

• Stay adequately hydrated.

• Inform your primary care physician of the injury and schedule an appointment with a healthcare professional knowledgeable in concussion management.

Emergency Instructions:

Refer to an emergency room immediately with onset of any of the following signs/symptoms: weakness or numbness in arms/legs, decreased coordination, neck pain, repeated vomiting/nausea, pupil differences, ringing in ears, vision problems, slurring speech, seizures or convulsions, change in state of consciousness, increased confusion, unusual behavior, severe and/or worsening headache.


 

IBJI Concussion Specialists:

 
     
Dr. Andrew Hunt Dr. Rhutav Parikh Kelly Trainor APN, CPNP
847.247.4000 847.336.3335 773.327.5639
Grayslake, Libertyville Gurnee, Lake Forest, Lindenhurst Glenview, Highland Park,
    Logan Square, Morton Grove

For your information, the IbJI Concussion Program is financially integrated. If you are referred to a clinician in IBJI for related services, you may request and receive a referral for these services outside or independent of IBJI.

Page Last Updated 9/12/2016