Concussion Safety

CONCUSSION SAFETY

TYFH recognizes the importance of concussion awareness. The following consists of information and resources for parents and players.

In an effort to prevent concussions, please ensure your player wears up-to-date equipment that meets the prevailing safety standards, and understands the rules of the game.

We are fortunate to have experts nearby in the field of concussion awareness, safety, prevention, and detection at the New England Institute for Neurology & Headache or NEINH, formerly known as The Concussion Center of Fairfield County. NEINH is dedicated to the assessment, management, and education of concussions. NEINH offers Baseline ImPACT tests to any athlete 11 years or older. Consult with your doctor for advice and guidance.

CONCUSSION SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OBSERVED BY COACHES OR PARENTS

Appears dazed or stunned

Is confused about assignment or position

Forgets sports plays

Is unsure of game, score, or opponent

Moves clumsily

Answers questions slowly

Loses consciousness (even briefly)

Shows behavior or personality changes

Can't recall events prior to hit or fall

Can't recall events after hit or fall

CONCUSSION SYMPTOMS REPORTED BY ATHLETE

Headache or "pressure" in head

Nausea or vomiting

Balance problems or dizziness

Double or blurry vision

Sensitivity to light

Sensitivity to noise

Feeling sluggish, hazy, foggy, or groggy

Concentration or memory problems

Confusion

Does not "feel right"

ACTION PLAN

It's better to miss one game than the whole season!

If you suspect that a player has a concussion, you should take the following steps:

1. Remove athlete from play

2. Ensure athlete is evaluated by an appropriate health care professional. Do not try to judge the seriousness of the injury yourself.

3. Inform athlete's parents or guardians about the known or possible concussion and refer them to the TYFH Concussion Safety information provided on this web page.

4. Allow athlete to return to play only with permission from an appropriate health care professional.

For more information visit: https://www.cdc.gov/heads-up/