In July 2012, the Nebraska Legislature unanimously passed Legislative Bill 260 (LB260), better known as The Concussion Awareness Act. GYSF takes the health and well-being of our young athletes very serious and we want to ensure that parents, athletes and coaches are knowledgeable when it comes to concussions.
THE FACTS
* A concussion is a brain injury.
* All concussions are serious.
* Concussions can occur without loss of consciousness.
* Concussions can occur in any sport.
* Recognition and proper management of concussions when they first occur can help prevent further injury or even death.
WHAT IS A CONCUSSION?
Concussion, a type of traumatic brain injury, is caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head. Concussions can also occur from a blow to the body that causes the head and brain to move quickly back and forth—causing the brain to bounce around or twist within the skull. This sudden movement of the brain can cause stretching and tearing of brain cells, damaging the cells and creating chemical changes in the brain.
HOW CAN I RECOGNIZE A POSSIBLE CONCUSSION?
To help spot a concussion, you should watch for and ask others to report the following two things:
- A forceful bump, blow, or jolt to the head or body that results in rapid movement of the head.
- Any concussion signs or symptoms, such as a change in the athlete’s behavior, thinking, or physical functioning.
Signs and symptoms of concussion generally show up soon after the injury. But the full effect of the injury may not be noticeable at first. For example, in the first few minutes the athlete might be slightly confused or appear a little bit dazed, but an hour later he or she can’t recall coming to the practice or game. You should repeatedly check for signs of concussion and also tell parents what to watch out for at home. Any worsening of concussion signs or symptoms indicates a medical emergency.
