How do concussions affect athletes?

Research shows that athletes who have repeated concussions are more likely to get long-term brain damage, including a condition known as chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), a brain disease that mimics dementia.

What sport has the highest rate of concussions?

Football accounted for more than half of all concussions, and it had the highest incidence rate (0.60). Girls’ soccer had the most concussions among the girls’ sports and the second-highest incidence rate of all 12 sports (0.35).

What athletes have suffered concussions?

Here are their stories:

• Aaron Hernandez. Aaron Hernandez, a tight end for the New England Patriots, suffered from CTE.
• Frank Gifford. Frank Gifford, a halfback and flanker for the New York Giants, suffered from concussion-related brain injury.
• Ken Stabler.
• Andre Waters.
• Junior Seau.

How many concussions can an athlete have?

Athletes who have suffered concussions deserve a thorough, individualized process. It would make things easy to rely on a number, such as you can’t play after three concussions. But there’s no evidence for such a cutoff.

When do athletes feel better after a concussion?

While most athletes with a concussion feel better within a couple of weeks, some will have symptoms for months or longer. Not giving the brain enough recovery time can be dangerous.

Can multiple concussions affect you later in life?

If you’re a serious athlete who has sustained multiple concussions, you may have been told you’re at a higher risk of developing a neurodegenerative disease later in life. Recent studies have shown a link between multiple sports concussions and chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), a kind of dementia.

What sport causes the most brain damage?

The following sports/recreational activities represent the categories contributing to the highest number of estimated head injuries treated in U.S. hospital emergency rooms in 2018.

• Horseback Riding: 6,141.
• Golf: 6,357.
• Hockey: 7,668.
• Trampolines: 8,956.
• Rugby/Lacrosse: 10,901.
• Skating: 7,143.
• Playground Equipment: 38,915.

What football player died from CTE?

Greg Clark, Former NFL Player, Dies at 49 After Suffering From CTE.

Can 2 concussions cause CTE?

One concussion in the absence of other brain trauma has never been seen to cause CTE. The best evidence available today suggests that while in theory CTE could begin after one brain injury, if it does, it is rare.

Is having 2 concussions bad?

The risks of sustaining multiple concussions are serious. Research has shown that people who have multiple concussions are at an increased risk of long-term impairment, such as forgetfulness, “foggy” thinking, difficulty concentrating, balance issues, difficulty focusing and trouble with eyesight.

What to do for a concussion?

There are two basic types of treatment for a concussion: home and medical treatment. At home, you can usually treat a concussion by applying ice, which may help with swelling and discomfort. You may also use an over-the-counter (OTC) treatment such as acetaminophen for pain, get lots of rest, and drink plenty of fluids.

What causes concussions in sports?

Motor vehicle accidents, falls, and sports injuries are common causes of concussions. Any sport that involves contact can result in a concussion. Among children, most concussions happen on the playground, while bike riding, or when playing sports such as football, basketball, or soccer.

Do I have a concussion?

A concussion is a traumatic brain injury that affects your brain function. Effects are usually temporary but can include headaches and problems with concentration, memory, balance and coordination. Concussions are usually caused by a blow to the head. Violently shaking of the head and upper body also can cause concussions.

What is a sport concussion?

A sports concussion is a brain injury event that shakes the head violently in the skull. It may occur due to direct impact to the head or due to an impact to the body that leads to a sudden whiplash movement of the head. It occurs usually in sports such as football, soccer, ice hockey , and lacrosse,…