Be Head Smart to Avoid Head Injuries

As awareness of the dangers of concussions grow, more resources than ever are available for parents, educators, coaches, and kids to learn about these traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) and ways to remedy the consequences of such injuries.

Sports enthusiasts have an increased risk of a head injury whether playing at the professional level, recreational, on a team, or individually. Any sport where there is an increase of an impact with someone else's head – basketball, football, soccer, or the head hitting the ground or hard surface – ice skating, sledding, snowmobiling, the risk of a TBI is increased.

Traumatic brain injuries occur after a blow or bump to the head, but can also result from a whiplash-like motion. While moderate to severe traumatic brain injuries are usually obvious, mild head injuries often go undetected. These injuries are usually closed head injuries; damage is not visibly apparent. Closed head injuries can be very subtle and often go undiagnosed; failing to lose consciousness does not rule out a TBI. Additionally, a normal MRI or CT scan does not mean a person did not suffer from a brain injury. Common after-effects of significant concussions can include: problems with attention, concentration, memory, judgment, and anxiety, but these symptoms may not develop for weeks or months. Once an athlete has sustained a head injury, subsequent injuries also cause more severe damage, often leading to devastating results; repeated concussions can have a cumulative effect such as Alzheimer's-like disorders.

Most closed head injuries, especially with athletes, could have been prevented if more safety precautions were taken. The greatest prevention is wearing a properly fitted helmet. To help ensure the safety of young athletes, the Center for Disease Control (CDC) developed Heads Up: Concussion in Youth Sports, which provides important information on preventing, recognizing, and responding to a concussion and an online training course for parents and coaches.
Here are a few tips while participating in an organized and recreational sport this winter:

•Obey the rules of the sport
•Wear a helmet and other protective gear
•Use good judgment
•Respect the safety of others
•Knowing your abilities

If you or a loved one has sustained a blow to the head or a whiplash injury, it is important to be removed from play immediately and seek immediate medical attention. Diagnosing and treating the injury early is the key to preventing further brain injury.

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