It can be difficult for the average person to determine whether their child has suffered a concussion. The following is a brief version of a SCAT 2, which can help identify possible symptoms of a serious head injury. Concussion should be suspected in the presence of any one or more of the following symptoms, physical signs or impaired brain function.
Symptoms
Sensitivity to light or noise
Loss of consciousness
Seizure or convulsion
Pressure in the head
Nausea or vomiting
Balance problem
Blurred vision
Headache
Neck pain
Amnesia
Dizziness
More emotional / irritability
Nervousness or anxiety
Fatigue or low energy
Feeling "slowed down" or "in a fog"
Difficulty concentrating
Difficulty remembering
"Don't feel right"
Confusion
Drowsiness
Sadness
Memory Function
Failure to answer all questions correctly may suggest a concussion.
What venue are we at today?
Which period is it now?
Who scored last in this game?
What team did you play last game?
Did your team win the last game?
Balance Testing
Instructions for the tandem stance:
Have the person suspected of suffering a concussion stand heel-to-toe with their non-dominant foot in back. His or her weight should be evenly distributed across both feet. The person should try to maintain stability for 20 seconds with his or her hands on their hips and their eyes closed.
Observe the athlete for 20 seconds. If they make more than five errors - such as lifting their hands from hips, opening their eyes, lifting toes or heels, stepping, stumbling or falling - or remain out of the start position for more than five seconds, this may suggest a concussion.
An athlete with a suspected concussion should be immediately removed from play, urgently assessed medically, should not be left alone, and should not drive a motor vehicle.
Wave is published six times a year by the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority in cooperation with the Winnipeg Free Press. It is available at newsstands, hospitals and clinics throughout Winnipeg, as well as McNally Robinson Books.
