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.
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IBJI Concussion Specialists:
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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, |
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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