Brain Injury – Youth Concussion and Sports
New Mexico
What is a concussion?
A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury (TBI), often referred to as a closed head
injury. It is caused by a bump, jolt, or blow to the head resulting in trauma to the brain and
a disruption in the way the brain normally functions.
Concussions are usually considered mild brain injures because they are not life threatening.
Due to structural and chemical changes, however, the brain is in a vulnerable state during
the period of recovery. This means that the effects of a concussion can be serious.
Since the rate of recovery is different for different people, it is important for the person
who has a concussion to avoid activities that could create additional injury, until they are
symptom-free.
What are the signs and symptoms?
•
Cannot recall events prior to or after a hit or fall
•
Appears dazed or stunned
•
Forgets an instruction, is confused about an assignment or position, or is unsure of the
game, score, or opponent
•
Moves clumsily
•
Answers questions slowly
•
Loses consciousness, even briefly
•
Shows mood, behavior, or personality changes
Recovery from concussion
•
Rest is very important after a concussion because it helps the brain heal.
•
Physical activities or activities that involve a lot of concentration, like studying, working
on the computer, or playing video games may cause concussion symptoms, such as
headache or tiredness, to get worse.
Returning to school after a concussion
Talk to the youth’s coach and school about the concussion and symptoms. As symptoms
decrease, the extra help or support needed during recovery may be gradually removed.
Children and teens who return to school after a concussion may need to:
•
Take rest breaks
•
Spend fewer hours at school
•
Be given more time to take tests or complete assignments
•
Receive help with homework
•
Reduce time spent reading, writing, or on the computer
Link to New Mexico law
about concussion and
youth sports
www.nmlegis.gov/Sessions/16
%20Regular/final/SB0137.pdf
NM Activities
Association Concussion
in Sports Fact Sheet for
Athletes and Parents
http://www.nmact.org/file/Fa
cts_4_Families.pdf
CDC Heads Up Initiative
www.cdc.gov/headsup
New Mexico Brain Injury
Resource Center
1-844-366-2472
Email:
[email protected]
www.arcaopeningdoors.org/se
rvices/new-mexico-braininjury-resource-center/
Questions?
Call the CDD
Information Network
1-800-552-8195
or visit our website
www.cdd.unm.edu/infonet
Informational Tip
Sheets:
www.cdd.unm.edu/infonet/ti
p-sheets.html
The information contained in this document is for general purposes only. This is not intended to provide medical or legal advice.
Revised 2/20/17