Concussions

We have all heard the symptoms of a concussion in young athletes; loss of consciousness, confusion, dizziness, nausea, and so on. But did you know a Second Impact concussion could cause devastating and permanent injury?

Second Impact Syndrome is when a second concussion occurs before a first concussion has properly healed. This causes rapid and severe brain swelling and often catastrophic results. Second Impact Syndrome can result from even a very mild concussion that occurs days or weeks after the initial concussion.

Many young athletes are eager to return to their sport but it is imperative to allow their developing bodies adequate time to heal. Respiratory failure, permanent brain injury and even death are a reality if athletes don’t fully recover from a concussion before incurring another.

It is imperative following a concussion that you avoid all external stimulation from touchscreen phones, computers, ipads and televisions.  You must report to your doctor any changes in nausea, dizziness, mood, headaches and behavior.  There are some great supplements and laser treatments available to help speed up the healing process.

If you or someone you know has experienced a concussion and have questions that we may be able to answer, please don’t hesitate to contact our office at 847-362-4476.
Information on concussion and second impact symptoms can be found at  www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/concussion