I'm sure many of us know someone who has suffered a concussion, or been unfortunate enough to experience one personally. I know several of my friends have been diagnosed with a concussion in the last few months alone.
Concussions don't just happen in major car crashes and extreme hockey hits. A concussion is any blow to the body or head that causes the brain to move around inside the skull. This could be caused by a seemingly minor fall or hit, even where you don't lose consciousness at all.
There are several red flag symptoms to watch for if you suspect a concussion. If you see any of the following symptoms, call 9-1-1 immediately.
Red flag symptoms of concussion
- Neck pain
- Increased confusion or irritability
- Repeated vomiting
- Seizure or convulsion
- Weakness in arms/legs
- Tingling or burning in arms/legs
- Deteriorating consciousness
- Loss of consciousness
- Severe or increasing headache
- Unusual behaviour change
- Double vision
If you or your child has been diagnosed with a concussion, physical and mental rest are important in making a full recovery. Parachute Canada has made learning about concussions and tracking healing easy with their new app, Concussion Ed.
Why download a concussion app?
Parachute Canada cautions:
The real dangers of most concussions occur when the injury is not recognized or is managed incorrectly. Returning to activities too early can put a child at increased risk for future concussions and serious complications.
The Concussion Ed app is designed to provide easy-to-follow information geared towards parents, youth, and educators. Concussion Ed can be used for anyone caring for a child who is suspected of having or recovering from a concussion. This app provides a format to share information with your health care provider to ensure the best care and recovery.
Concussion Ed features
- Ways to prevent concussions
- Recognize a concussion
- Manage symptoms after a concussion
- Track your recovery
Concussion facts
- Concussions do not always include a loss of consciousness
- Helmets do not protect against concussions, but do protect from skull fractures
- A hit to the body can cause a concussion, even if the head was not hit
- The signs and symptoms of a concussion can be delayed up to weeks post injury
Watch Concussion 101: A primer for kids and parents then download Concussion Ed to learn more!
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