Why a concussion should never be underestimated

Post date: Nov 01, 2017 11:12:44 AM

In the National Football League (NFL), there have been various studies that emphasize the need for protecting players from the short- and long-term consequences of concussion.

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One of the most influential studies on the effects of head trauma or concussion on football players was published by the American Academy of Neurology. Thousands of former retired players then were surveyed on the subject. Around 60 percent of the respondents indicated that they experienced at least one concussion during their career, and it was determined that they were susceptible to neurological symptoms even later on in their life. 

These symptoms include loss of memory and concentration, difficulties in speech and hearing, persistent headaches, numbness of extremities, among others. 

Concussion may be called a mild traumatic brain injury, but its long-term effects should definitely not be underestimated. 

And, sadly, there are misconceptions on concussions. One is that people believe that it is caused by a hard blow to the head; even intense shaking of the head can concuss a person. Another one is that one has to be knocked out first to suffer from a concussion; a concussed person usually remains conscious after the incident. 

Those who have possibly suffered a concussion, particularly children, should be brought to a medical professional to make sure that the appropriate treatment is administered, limiting or eliminating symptoms that might occur in the future. 

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Dr. Curtis Cripe heads the R&D of NTLgroup, a consortium of like-minded researchers and healthcare professionals whose main objectives are to provide treatment to patients with addictions, traumatic brain injuries, and neurodevelopmental delays. Read more about the company here.