Research Snippets about concussions
Directions: Read the following excerpts to become familiar with the topic of concussions. Sources are listed above the excerpts for easy citation. If you wish to read more, click on the source to access the unabridged medical reports and news articles. Always cite any information you borrow!
Fast Facts
A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury (/TraumaticBrainInjury/index.html) , or TBI, caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head that can change the way your brain normally works. Concussions can also occur from a blow to the body that causes the head to move rapidly back and forth. Even a “ding,” “getting your bell rung,” or what seems to be mild bump or blow to the head can be serious. Concussions can occur in any sport or recreation activity. So, all coaches, parents, and athletes need to learn concussion signs and symptoms and what to do if a concussion occurs. |
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Girls more prone to concussion?
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Doctors generally recommend that a student with a concussion rest initially, to give the brain time to heal. That may mean no texting, video games, computer use, reading or television. But there’s a big question mark about the timing and duration of “cognitive rest.” Experts have not identified at what point mental exertion impedes healing, when it actually helps, and when too much rest prolongs recovery. Although many doctors are concerned that a hasty return to a full school day could be harmful, this theory has not yet been confirmed by research.
The student’s pediatrician, parents and teachers should communicate about the incident, the recommendations said, and be watchful for when academic tasks aggravate symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, sensitivity to light and difficulty concentrating. The academy acknowledged that case management must be highly individualized: “Each concussion is unique and may encompass a different constellation and severity of symptoms.” Most students have a full recovery within three weeks, the article said. But if the recovery seems protracted, specialists should be consulted. Many school officials do not realize they can make simple accommodations to ease the student’s transition back to the classroom, the academy said. |
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