Signs of a Concussion

North Dakota concussion law protects youth athletes from traumatic brain injury

How to spot the warning signs of a concussion

The Journal of Athletic Training reported that in the United States an estimated 300,000 traumatic brain injuries happen due to sports activities. Concussions in contact sports such as football and soccer rank the highest out of all competitive sports. Sports rank second overall to motor vehicle accidents as the leading cause of traumatic brain injury in people 15 to 25 years old.

A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury that is caused by a strong, hard blow to the head. Concussions are considered mild traumatic brain injuries (MTBI) but they can be serious depending on the severity of the injuries. Concussions are also caused by slip and fall accidents, motorcycle accidents, and recreational sports activities such as boating, bicycling, water skiing, and snow skiing.

In order to protect young athletes from traumatic brain injuries, North Dakota takes a firm stand on concussion management in school athletic programs. In 2011, Governor Jack Dalrymple signed Senate Bill 2281 which requires schools that sponsor athletic programs to follow the state-mandated concussion management laws.

The concussion management program requires that student athletes who show any signs of a concussion must be removed immediately from the game or athletic practice. Injured athletes must have a thorough medical examination by a licensed healthcare provider. They are also required to get written permission from their doctor in order to return to sports activities. Sports coaches, officials and athletic trainers are required to attend mandatory concussion-related training and education programs every two years.

Symptoms of Concussions 

Even if you don’t lose consciousness after a head injury, you can still have a concussion and experience symptoms hours, days, or even weeks later. If you or a loved one is struck on the head as a result of an accident, seek medical attention as quickly as possible. In emergency situations, immediately call 911 especially if the person loses consciousness. Watch for these common signs of a concussion:

• Physical – Nausea, vomiting, headache, fuzzy or blurry vision, lack of energy, light and noise sensitivity, and balance and walking issues
• Emotional – Anxiety, nervousness, agitation, irritability, and sadness
• Thinking and remembering – Memory loss, lack of concentration, inability to recall new information, and difficulty thinking clearly
• Sleep – Inability to fall asleep or wake up from sleep, fatigue, and lethargy

Since babies can’t communicate how they feel, watch for a change in their normal routine such as crying more often and changes in their nursing and eating patterns.

If you or a family member is suffering from the painful aftermath of a concussion, talk to our skilled Minot injury attorneys at Larson Law. It is your legal right to be fairly compensated for your medical bills, loss of income, and emotional trauma. For more information, contact us online today or call our office at 701-484-4878.