Recognition of Concussion
A sports-related concussion usually involves a blow to the head either directly or indirectly. The following are common signs and symptoms of sports-related concussions:
- Signs (observed by others):
- Loss of consciousness (any duration)
- Nausea or vomiting
- Athlete appears dazed or stunned
- Confusion (about assignments, plays, etc.)
- Forgets plays
- Unsure about game, score, opponent
- Moves clumsily (altered coordination)
- Balance problems
- Personality/or behavior changes
- Responds slowly to questions
- Forgets events prior to hit
- Forgets events after hit
- Symptoms (reported by athlete):
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Nausea or vomiting
- Double vision, blurry vision
- Sensitive to light or noise
- Feels sluggish
- Feels foggy
- Problems concentrating
- Problems remembering
These signs and symptoms are indicative of probable concussion. Other causes for any of these signs/symptoms should also be considered.