Information for Parents Regarding Head Injuries and Concussion
What is a Concussion? In the event of a concussion, the brain sustains damage at a microscopic level in which cells and cell membranes are torn and stretched. The damage to these cells also disrupts the brain at a chemical level, as well as causing restricted blood flow to the damaged areas of the brain, thereby disrupting brain function. A concussion, therefore, is a disruption in how the brain works; it is not a structural injury. Concussions are difficult to diagnose because the damage cannot be seen. Because concussions are difficult to detect, student athletes must obtain medical approval before returning to athletics following a concussion. In some instances, the signs of a concussion do not become obvious until several hours or even days after the injury.The following is the procedure for any student, who during a practice or competition, sustains a head injury or suspected concussion, or exhibits signs and symptoms of a concussion or loses consciousness, even briefly.
If a student sustains a head injury outside of school, the parent shall complete the Report of Head Injury Form and submit to the school nurse.For more information on concussion, visit www.cdc.gov/Concussion with any questions or concerns. |