Last year, the New York Times published 15 articles on devastating results of repeated concussions related to athletics.  The cases included high school kids, college students and professional athletes. Almost all the concussed athletes returned to the field after the first blow to the head, but after a second or third time, most were no longer able to play.

Many different types of athletes are susceptible to head injuries, including participants in the following sports:

• Football
• Hockey
• Soccer
• Lacrosse
• Boxing
• Wrestling

All athletes should be aware of how to protect themselves if hit in the head not just once, but in some cases several times.

According to the New York Times report, studies have shown that it takes female athletes longer to recover from head injuries then it does male athletes; and younger athlete takes longer to recover then the older ones because they are more vulnerable to brain damage.

Most of these injuries could have been prevented if everyone involved in the sports recognized and knew about the symptoms of concussions. They could take the proper steps ensuring that the athletes’ brains were allowed to fully heal.

Symptoms of concussions can include headaches, sleepiness, short attention span, memory loss, mood swings, and personality changes. Other symptoms of concussions may include blurred visions, nausea, dizziness, sensitivity to noise and light.

Repeated concussions could cause long lasting and sometimes permanent effects. Sometimes the results even led to death.

In America last year, at least four students died from head injuries, the New York Times reported. They suffered from what is called second-impact syndrome, which impairs brain activity when a person receives another hit to the head before the brain has fully recovered from a prior concussion.

According to Dr. Cantu, a clinical professor at Boston University School of Medicine, anyone responsible for an athlete’s well-being and physical health should use the 25-item graded system checklist to determine the seriousness of the concussion. This may prevent repeat concussions and protect the athlete from any further damage.

For younger athletes who suffer a severe blow to the head, it’s advised they don’t be placed back into the game.  Their brains are more vulnerable to damage and need to be protected. Even if the player appears to be fine after a twenty minute period, they should still stay put on the bench.

If they suffer a repeat concussion, then it might be best to let them rest for a week or so longer.

Dt. Cantu also stressed the importance of allowing an injured brain to rest. If this time is not allowed than the symptoms can worsen, prolonging recovery and causing permanent damages. This occurs when the brain cells die because there has not been enough time for them to recover.

Special helmets have been developed to track the intensity of hit and relay it back through wireless signals to computers on the sidelines. This alerts coaches to possible concussions and allows them to look out for their players. In many cases, players might not want to tell their coaches that they are hurt, so they can remain in the game.

Everyone involved should learn the consequences and damages caused by severe hits to the head to prevent and protect all athletes from any further personal injuries.