Concussions

Category: Team Trainer

NOTE: This is provided for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

There are many times in the game of soccer where players jump for a head ball and end up colliding, usually hitting heads. The same can be said for players being tripped or falling and ending up hitting their heads on the way down. One concern is if the player has suffered a concussion. How do you know?

Concussions are traumatic head injuries that occur from both mild and severe blows to the head. Concussions can have serious, long-term effects, especially repeat head injuries or multiple concussions so they should not be taken lightly or ignored.

A concussion is typically caused by a severe head trauma during which the brain moves violently within the skull. Depending on how severe the concussion was, it may cause unconsciousness.

The following is a list of signs and symptoms to look out for if you think a player has suffered a concussion:

  • Confusion
  • Disorientation
  • Fluid draining from the ears, nose or mouth
  • Memory loss
  • Unconsciousness
  • Unequal size pupils

If a player has suffered a head injury, not matter how mild you or the player may think it is, it is best to sit the player for the remainder of the game. Allowing the player to continue playing may result in a minor injury becoming a major one.