FACTS:
- Concussions are a traumatic brain injury
- ALL concussions are serious
- The majority of concussions occur without loss of consciousness
- Concussions can occur in any sport
- The majority of concussions are NOT sport-related and most occur as a result of a fall.
- Concussions can occur while wearing a helmet or a head-protective device
- Some Individuals may not report their symptoms for fear of losing their playing time or their role on the team
- Proper identification and management when they first occur helps prevent further injury or death.
MYTHS:
- MYTH: Sports Injuries are the leading cause of concussion
- FACT: Falls are the leading cause of concussion
- MYTH: Concussions always result in a loss of consciousness
- FACT: More than 90% of concussions occur without loss of consciousness
- MYTH: You should never sleep after a concussion
- FACT: Sleep can help your brain after a concussion. It is important to rest, especially the first 24-48 hours after injury. As long as you are stable, you can sleep. If you cannot arouse the individual, seek medical attention immediately
- MYTH: You should rest in a dark room to recover from a concussion
- FACT: Long periods of rest after a concussion may not help recovery. A brief period of rest, about 24-48 hours, is enough. Gradual return to activity and active rehabilitation guided by a healthcare provider specially trained in concussion management are effective ways to treat a concussion after that.
- MYTH: It takes months to recover from a concussion
- FACT: 80% of people diagnosed with a concussion recover in 3 weeks or less. The best way to ensure a proper recovery is to seek profession treatment by a healthcare provider who has gone through specialized training in concussion assesment and management.
IT IS IMPORTANT THAT YOU ARE EVALUATED AND TREATED BY A HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONAL WHO IS SPECIALIZED IN THE ASSESSMENT AND TREATMENT OF CONCUSSION CARE.
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