Football concussion risks

High school football season it back! From fraternizing with friends and neighbors, to munching on hot dogs and hamburgers while watching the game, Friday night football is a favorite pastime for families across Austin. However, what is often a fun night of cheering for your home team, athletes and their coaches and families need to keep safety, including the risk of concussions, top of mind.

In 2013, almost 330,000 youths 19 or younger were treated for a sports-related concussion or traumatic brain injury (TBI) in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. But that number only reflects diagnosed cases, and experts at Seton say the signs and symptoms of a concussion can be hard to recognize – meaning a number of cases go undiagnosed each year.

“An athlete who hits their head during a game may look fine even if they have a concussion,” said Dr. John Bertelson, neurologist at Seton Brain & Spine Institute. "If they later complain of symptoms such as headache, dizziness, or difficulty concentrating, they should see their healthcare provider."

Seton physicians say symptoms of a concussion include headaches, dizziness, confusion, difficulty concentrating, fatigue, and sleeping difficulties. In rare cases, a person with a concussion may form a dangerous blood clot that crowds the brain against the skull.

An athlete or injured person should contact their health care professional or emergency department right away if they experience these warning signs after a bump, blow, or jolt to your head or body:

• Headache that gets worse and does not go away
• Weakness, numbness or decreased coordination
• Repeated vomiting or nausea
• Slurred speech