As a mom of 4, I’ve always been immensely proud of my children’s passion for sports. From the early days of pee-wee leagues to high school athletics, I’ve cheered from the sidelines at countless games and shared in both the victories and defeats.
There’s one aspect of being a sports mom that has become increasingly important to me: concussion awareness.
March is Brain Injury Awareness Month
Concussions are more than just bumps on the head; they are serious brain injuries that can have lasting effects if not properly addressed. March is Brain Injury Awareness Month, and it’s a great time to educate yourself on this sometimes silent but serious injury.
The dangers of concussions hit close to home when my child experienced one during a hockey match. It was a terrifying moment, watching them take a hard elbow to the side of the head. I originally thought the helmet provided 100% protection, but after dizziness, confusion and a bad headache set in, I knew something wasn’t quite right.
Signs & Symptoms of a Concussion*
Recognizing the signs and symptoms of a concussion is crucial for any sports parent. Some common indicators include:
- Headache: Persistent or worsening headaches following a hit to the head.
- Nausea or vomiting
- Dizziness or balance problems: Difficulty maintaining balance or feeling unsteady on their feet.
- Confusion or memory problems: Disorientation, difficulty concentrating, or memory lapses.
- Sensitivity to light or noise
- Changes in mood or behavior: Irritability, sadness, or other sudden changes in mood may signal a concussion.
- Loss of consciousness: Though not always present, loss of consciousness is a clear indicator of a concussion.
It’s important to note that symptoms may not appear immediately after the injury and can develop over time. As a sports mom, staying vigilant and informed about these signs is essential for ensuring prompt and appropriate care for our young athletes.
Concussion Prevention
In addition to recognizing the symptoms, taking proactive steps to prevent concussions is vital. This includes ensuring that athletes wear appropriate protective gear, practicing proper techniques to reduce the risk of collisions, and promoting a culture of safety within sports teams and organizations.
Despite our best efforts, accidents can still happen. That’s why having a game plan for how to respond to a suspected concussion is crucial. Seeking medical attention promptly, following proper concussion protocols, and allowing adequate time for recovery are essential steps in ensuring the best possible outcome for our young athletes.
Take the Concussion Awareness Pledge!
he effects of a concussion can extend far beyond the playing field, impacting academic performance, mental health, and overall quality of life. This is why concussion education is so important! Acknowledging symptoms, being educated in proper protocols, and finding experts for proper diagnosis to can minimize lasting effects of these serious situations.
Thanks to our partners at Healing with Hyperbarics, you can help spread the word about concussion awareness and sign the pledge here to promote concussion recognition and prevention.
Together, we can make a difference in the lives of our children and future generations of athletes!
About Healing with Hyperbarics Oxygen Therapy
Healing with Hyperbarics is changing the standard of care for concussion treatment. Their Oxygen-Powered Treatment is designed to repair damaged tissue, reduce swelling, and turn off inflammation in the body. Hyperbarics can offer faster healing, and is used to treat both acute concussions or prolonged concussion symptoms.
Find out more about Healing with Hyperbaric’s treatment options using Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy by visiting healingwithhyperbarics.com/concussions or call 701-532-2426.
*Disclaimer: The information in this article is for informational purposes only. This content should not be a substitute for professional medical advice or diagnosis. Always seek the advice of a qualified health care provider regarding a medical condition or concern.
