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    Get clued up on concussion

    Concussion is defined as “the acute neurophysiological event related to blunt impact or other mechanical energy applied to the head, neck or body which results in a transient disturbance of neurological function”.


    The most commonly reported causes of concussion in New Zealand are falls, colliding with an object, being struck by a person (or animal) and driving-related accidents (including bike accidents; Although people often associate concussions with sporting accidents, this only accounts for 20 – 30% of events overall. Approximately one-third of sports-related concussions involve people playing rugby union.


    If you broke a bone, you wouldn't take a wait and see approach in the hope you will get better. Without immediate specialist care, a bone is unlikely to repair correctly, causing problems for the rest of your life. The same principle applies to your brain!


    The medical term for concussion is mTBI – mild Traumatic Brain Injury. While it sounds dramatic, nearly 35,000 Kiwis experience a concussion each year. Some interesting facts about concussion:

    • 1 in 5 high school athletes will get a concussion

    • You do NOT have to get hit in the head to sustain a concussion

    • Girls are 4x more likely to get concussed than boys

    • The number one cause of concussions in New Zealand is falls



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    Learn the 3 R’s of Concussions

    While some sports have a higher risk of concussions, it’s important to remember concussions can happen in any sport, and even outside of sports. It’s important to recognise the signs and symptoms of a concussion early. Review these symptoms for yourself and go over them with your children, and let them know that the signs of a concussion do not always appear immediately - concussion symptoms may show up hours or even a day after the head injury. You have the best chance of recovering from a concussion and avoiding complications if you follow the three R’s: recognize, report, and recover. Symptoms may include:

    • Headache

    • Confusion

    • Lack of coordination

    • Memory loss

    • Nausea

    • Vomiting

    • Dizziness

    • Ringing in the ears

    • Sleepiness

    • Excessive fatigue

    Anyone with a suspected concussion should be removed from any sports game and/or cease physical activity until they are assessed by a medical professional. Those with a suspected concussion should not be left alone or drive a motor vehicle.


    Helpful links

    Here are some helpful links to more detailed information on concussion:






     
     
     

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