Sports-Related Concussions Send More Youngsters to ER

Results of a recent study published by the American Academy of Pediatrics suggests that the number of children seeking medical care for concussions incurred while playing competitive sports has more than doubled over a five year period. According to the study, forty-percent of children seen in the emergency room for sports-related concussions were elementary and middle-schoolers between the ages of 8 and 13. Physicians say the brains in younger children are more susceptible to injury, that these injuries may take longer to heal and can cause more damage than concussion in adults or adolescents. The report stress the need for parents, coaches and physicians to create better guidelines for recognizing brain trauma in youngsters, and when and how long to sideline them. More importantly, the report stress the need for solutions and ways to protect children from future long-term brain injuries. (8/29) LA Times

However, adolescent sports-related concussions are also serious and may cause death or severe long-term injuries as the still-developing brains in teenagers make them more susceptible to the debilitating effects of head injuries. Experts say that children and adolescents who have suffered a concussion should always be evaluated by a physician to receive medical clearance prior to resuming play. Common practice is to wait 15 minutes and return to play. Contrary to public perception, only about one in ten individuals who sustain a concussion loses consciousness. Symptoms can appear up to 72 hours after an impact and may include disorientation, problems with memory, nausea and headache. (8/30) LA Times