Washington State
Concussions are the most common type of traumatic brain injury and are caused by a blow that causes the head to rapidly move back and forth. Repeated concussions may result in brain damage including dementia puglistica or other severe complications including post-concussive syndrome.
Concussions among high school athletes can have long-term mental and physical effects because younger brains are more susceptible to injury. Students who have had more than one concussion have an increased risk of long-term consequences including:
The Lystedt law requires the following for athletes under the age of 19:
Concussions among high school athletes can have long-term mental and physical effects because younger brains are more susceptible to injury. Students who have had more than one concussion have an increased risk of long-term consequences including:
- amnesia
- confusion
- dizziness
- impaired balance
- nausea
- fatigue
- inability to sleep
- sensitivity to light or noise, ringing in the ears
- blurred vision
- loss of sense of smell, taste or hearing
- mood changes including anxiety, irritability, depression
- difficulty in concentrating
The Lystedt law requires the following for athletes under the age of 19:
- Training regarding concussions should be given to athletes, parents and coaches each year so that symptoms of concussions cam be clearly recognized.
- If an athlete under the age of 18 is thought to have a concussion, he or she must be removed from the playing field, game, or practice.
- An athlete with a suspected concussion must be examined my a medical care professional and a release signed before the student is allowed to return to play.