Baseline ImPact Testing

Concussion: Scope Each year, U.S. emergency departments treat an estimated 135,000 sports- and recreation related concussions

What is a concussion? “Any alteration of mental function following a blow to the head that may or may not involve a loss of consciousness.” American Academy of Neurology, 1997

Concussion Signs and Symptoms Immediate signs or symptoms may include- Confusion Amnesia (loss of memory, forgetfulness) Headache Loss of consciousness Drowsiness Nausea- with or without vomiting Unequal pupil size Unusual eye movements Slurred speech

Concussion Signs and Symptoms Delayed signs and symptoms may include: Irritability Headaches Depression Sleep disturbances Fatigue Poor concentration – ie. School performance Trouble with memory Sensitive to sound, light and distractions Loss of taste or smell Difficulty with gait or in coordination of limbs.

Second Impact Syndrome Occurs in athletes with prior concussion following often relative minor second impact  Has been shown to occur up to 14 days post-injury  Athlete return to competition before symptom resolution Catastrophic increase in intracranial pressure  Vasomotor paralysis, edema, massive swelling, death Most often occurs in athletes <18 years of age  Processes appear to differ in developing brain

ImPact Testing It is a computerized neuropsychological test which helps to provide an objective measurement of how your brain is functioning. Helps to determine the severity of head injury after it occurs and when it is safe to return to play after a concussion. Helps in determining if activity modification is needed- school work, test taking, light physical activity.

What you can do as a parent? -ask your child if he is having any symptoms listed in previous slides. -contact your physician or clinical staff with any concerns or questions if you think your child may have a concussion -speak with your team coach or other parents if you have any concerns if you believe a child may be showing signs of a concussion

As a friend and teammate What you can do as a teammate? Tell your coach or any adult if your teammate seems confused, is slurring their speech, or just “doesn’t seem right” Encourage your teammate to tell a coach or adult of any symptoms