Could it be a concussion? How to tell

Sports and concussions can sometimes go hand-in-hand. Each year there seem to be more headlines about the seriousness of head injuries and demands for safer sports regulations. Is this an over-reaction or should we all pay more attention? How easy is it to get a concussion while just “horsing around’? The Trauma Centre at The Montreal Children’s Hospital (MCH) of the McGill University Health Centre (MUHC) have answers to these questions.

What is a concussion?

A concussion is a type of brain injury that causes a disturbance in brain function. It can be caused by a direct blow to the head, face, neck or body. It is important to note that while wearing protective headgear is always encouraged for safe play, it may not always prevent concussions. “Helmets, when worn properly, can reduce the incidence of severe brain injuries, but do not completely shield the brain,” says Debbie Friedman, Trauma Director at the MCH. “The brain is mobile within the skull. It can move from one side to the other during a hit or fall, causing a brain injury.” Friedman goes on to say that each year the MCH treats at least 1000 children and teens who have sustained sports related concussions.

Is it a concussion? A concussion should be suspected in the presence of any of the following: Signs observed

Confused/disoriented, does not know: time, place, activity,opposing team, or score of the game;
Cannot remember what happened before, during and/or after the injury;
A brief loss of consciousness (knocked out);
Easily distracted, difficulty with concentration;
Not playing as well;
Slurred speech;
Slow to answer questions or follow directions;
Strange or inappropriate emotions (i.e. laughing, crying, getting angry easily);
Blank stare / glassy-eyed.

Symptoms reported

Headache
Nausea
Dizziness
Vomiting
Feeling dazed, “dinged” or foggy
Seeing stars or flashing lights
Ringing in the ears
Drowsiness
Double or blurry vision
Poor coordination/impaired balance
Memory problems

To help parents, coaches, teachers, and athletes better understand concussions and their impact, the trauma experts at the MCH have developed a number of resources. The MCH Concussion KiT [1] is an educational initiative designed to increase awareness of concussions and inform parents, players, coaches and caregivers on recognizing and managing them.

“Concussions need to be respected and managed properly, and in a timely manner otherwise the consequences can be significant and persistent,” says Friedman. “This in turn, can impact on their ability to function academically, socially and recreationally.”

The MCH recommends these prevention tips:

Wear appropriate standardized protective equipment. Make sure it fits.
Wearing a helmet decreases the severity of brain injuries but it does not make you invincible.
Physical preparation, proper conditioning and skill training is fundamental.
Fair play which includes teamwork, sportsmanship, respecting the rules and zero tolerance to violence is essential.
Consider environmental factors such as the condition of playing fields, ice surfaces, and other sports venues.

Remember a concussion is a brain injury:

Recognize symptoms
Seek medical attention
Never play through an injury

Reviewed by Trauma specialists at the Montreal Children’s Hospital.
Last updated: January 2014, October 2015