Specialized Recreation Concussion Information Sheet and Waiver

Required for all Thurston County Swim Club members

For current and up-to-date information on concussions you can go to:

https://www.cdc.gov/heads-up/

What is a concussion?

A concussion is a type of brain injury that changes the way the brain normally works. A concussion 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 rapidly back and forth. Even what seems to be a mild bump to the head can be serious. Concussions can have a more serious effect on a young, developing brain and need to be addressed correctly.

What are the signs and symptoms of a concussion?

You can’t see a concussion. Signs and symptoms of concussion can show up right after an injury or may not appear or be noticed until hours or days after the injury. It is important to watch for changes in how your child or teen is acting or feeling, if symptoms are getting worse, or if s/he just “doesn’t feel right.” Most concussions occur without loss of consciousness. If your child or teen reports one or more of the symptoms of concussion listed below, or if you notice the signs or symptoms yourself, seek medical attention right away. Children and teens are among those at greatest risk for concussion.

Symptoms may include one or more of the following:

- Headaches - Amnesia

- Pressure in head - "Doesn't Feel Right"

- Nausea or vomiting - Fatigue or low energy

- Neck pain - Balance problems or dizziness

- Sadness - Blurred, double, or fuzzy vision

- Nevousness or anxiety - Irritability

- More emotional - Sensitivity to light or noise

- Confusion - Feeling sluggish or slowed down

- Drowsiness - Feeling foggy or groggy

- Change in sleep patterns - Concentration or memory problems

- Repeating the same questions or comments

Signs observed by teammates, parents, and coaches include?

- Appears dazed - Slurred Speech

- Vacant facial expression - Shows behavior or personality changes

- Confused about assignment - Can't recall events prior to hit

- Forgets play - Can't recall events after being hit

- Is unsure of game, score, or opponet - Seizures or convulsions

- Moves clumsily or displays incoordination - Any change in typical behavior or personality

- Answers questions slow - Loses consciousness

What can happen if I keep on plaing with a concussion?

Participants with signs or symptoms of a concussion should be removed from play immediately. Children and teens who continue to play while having concussion symptoms, or who return to play too soon—while the brain is still healing—have a greater chance of getting another concussion. A repeat concussion that occurs while the brain is still healing from the first injury can be very serious, and can affect a child or teen for a lifetime. It can even be fatal. Concussions are often under reported, so it is vital for coaches, educators, parents, and students to be aware of the signs and symptoms to maintain safety.

If you think you or your child has suffered a concussion:

Any participant even suspected of suffering a concussion should be removed from the game or practice immediately. No participant may return to activity after an apparent head injury or concussion, regardless of how mild it seems or how quickly symptoms clear, without medical clearance. Close observation of the athlete should continue for several hours.

Do not try to judge the severity of the injury yourself. Only a healthcare provider should assess a child or teen for a possible concussion. Concussion signs and symptoms often show up soon after the injury. But you may not know how serious the concussion is at first, and some symptoms may not show up for hours or days. The brain needs time to heal after a concussion. A child’s or teen’s return to school and sports should be a gradual process that is carefully managed and monitored by a healthcare provider.

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I have read this fact sheet for parents and participants on concussions and talked with my parent or coach about what to do if I have a concussion or other serious brain injury. *

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