Athletes

What to do if you SUSPECT you may have suffered a concussion...

1) Take yourself out

If you think you may have suffered a concussion, take yourself out of the game or practice. Make sure you don't suffer another injury until the first one has completely healed. Know the signs and symptoms of a concussion and remember that it can take time for them to appear, sometimes hours or days after the injury occurs.

If you think you have a concussion, sit out. It's not worth the risk.

2) Tell someone

A person who suffers a concussion is not always the best judge of how badly they are hurt, because their brain may not be working properly. If you think you may have a concussion, or just aren't feeling "quite right" and you have some of the signs/symptoms of concussion, tell someone, preferably your coach or another adult.

3) Make sure to see a medical provider

Find a medical provider who is trained in the diagnosis and management of concussion. Don't judge the severity of the injury yourself. Concussions can be very unpredictable.

4) Obtain written medical authorization

Many states require athletes to obtain written medical authorization before they are allowed to return to play. If your state does not have a concussion law with this stipulation, it's a good practice to follow anyway. Make sure you are evaluated by a medical professional who is trained in the diagnosis and management of concussion. It's important to inquire.

5) Return to play gradually

Increase your physical activity gradually, so you know you are truly symptom-free and ready to return to play. If symptoms return when you do light drills or increase your heart rate, tell your parents who should contact your medical provider.

6) Be honest

Many of the high school athletes who have suffered catastrophic injuries such as second impact syndrome, played with symptoms from a previous concussion. In some cases their friends knew, but didn't know how dangerous it was, so they didn't speak up. Be honest with your parents, your medical professionals, and your coaches. It is impossible to know who will be lucky or who will require brain surgery.

7) Help a teammate

If you suspect a teammate has suffered a concussion, speak up, tell a coach or his parents. You might just save a life.

Related: Guidelines for care of the unconscious athlete