As the school year progresses it is important for parents and children to understand the potential dangers surrounding sports and recreational activities. Some common types of sports injuries are broken bones, muscle strains, abrasions, and head traumas or concussions. Traumatic brain injuries (“TBI”) may be the most serious of these injuries because they are not as apparent. Some of the most common activities associated with TBI are football, baseball, soccer, gymnastics, and playground activities.
Sports and recreational activities are responsible for approximately 21% of TBI among children and teens. According to a report by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (“CDC”), from 2001 to 2009 the number of sports related emergency room visits for persons 19 and younger increased 62%. Moreover, there has been a 92% increase for emergency room visits for sports-related traumatic brain injuries from 2002 to 2011.
Concussions are a type of TBI that causes the brain to move around inside the skull in response to a sudden impact. Some important signs of concussions that parents should look out for are:
- Child appearing dazed after a hit;
- Forgetfulness;
- Confusion about surroundings;
- Severe headaches; or
- Blurred vision.
If you observe a child experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to have a physician perform a thorough examination of the apparent condition before the child or teen returns to any more physical activity. The CDC reports that continuous play after a concussion increases a child’s risk for permanent brain damage.
If your child or someone you know has suffered a traumatic brain injury, contact an attorney at Abraham, Watkins, Nichols, Agosto, Aziz & Stogner by calling (713) 222-7211 or toll free at 1800-594-4884.