What are concussions and does it matter if they are

diagnosed?

By: Nathan Corchis

What is a Concussion?   A concussion is a brain injury that is caused by the brain

whipping around in the skull. A concussion is a mild brain injury that usually does not last for long-periods of time. It is also the most common head injury. This causes the brain to not function properly.

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Symptoms of Concussions   Headaches

  Dizziness

  Nausea

  Lack of Concentration

  Slurred Speech

  Behavioral Change

  Passing Out

  Loss of Coordination

  Memory Loss

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Diagnosed Concussions   A concussion can be much less serious and prevent

serious long-term effects if it is diagnosed by a doctor.

  It is extremely important to know when you have a concussion.

  It is vital to know how to treat concussion because your brain requires rest.

  The brain needs rest and time to heal after a diagnosis.

Treating Concussions   Cold Towels on Head

  Sleep/Rest

  No Activity

  No Television, Phone, School, Etc… for 2-3 days.

  No Physical Contact

  Must be cleared by doctor to participate in contact sports to prevent future concussions and long-term effects.

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Undiagnosed Concussions   Undiagnosed Concussions can lead to severe effects

like: Second Impact Syndrome, Post Concussion Syndrome, and even death but very rarely.

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Second Impact Syndrome:

This is when the brain swells after a second undiagnosed concussion.

SIS is usually fatal or severely disables the victim. The brain loses control over its blood flow. SIS is not common and shows why it is

important to take action immediately after the first

concussion.

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Post Concussion Syndrome   Post-concussion syndrome is

also known as shell shock. PCS is a series of concussion symptoms that can last for weeks, months, or even a year. PCS can be moderate to a severe traumatic brain injury. The symptoms can become very painful if a concussion is not diagnosed and the brain is put to work while injured.

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Video

Information   1) http://www.webmd.com/brain/tc/traumatic-brain-injury-concussion-overview

  2) http://kidshealth.org/teen/safety/first_aid/concussions.html

  3) http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Concussion

  4) http://tbi.unl.edu/savedTBI/sports/sis.html

  5) http://www.relieve-migraine-headache.com/post-concussion-syndrome.html

  EXPERTS:

  Dr. André Olivier

  Dr. Jeffrey Minuk

  Dr. Gérard Mohr

Standards   Health Literacy/Strand Responsible Behavior HE.912.B.1

Demonstrate the ability to access valid health information, products, and services to enhance health.

  Language Arts/Strand Writing Application: LA.910.4.2 Informative

  Language Arts/Strand: Communication LA.910.5.2 Listening and Speaking

  Language Arts/Strand Information and Media Literacy: LA.910.6.2 Research Process

  Language Arts/Strand Information and Media Literacy:LA.910.6.4 Technology