Kids, Sports and Head Injuries

With spring football practice comes injuries, including head injuries. The signs of a concussion aren’t always obvious, said UAB neuropsychologist Paul Blanton, Ph.D., who directs the UAB Sports-Related Concussion Clinic and Research Program. “The biggest mistake parents and coaches make is that if the child isn’t knocked unconscious or dazed over an extended period of time, they tend to dismiss the possibility of a concussion.” Blanton says loss of consciousness during a game is rare. The more subtle signs of concussion can include irritability, headache and drowsiness. Blanton warns parents against dismissing or ignoring complaints or symptoms and to seek a medical evaluation.

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