(Aug. 28, 2014) School is back in session and athletic programs are revving up for the fall season. Unfortunately, with the increase in activity, there is also an increase in head injuries. Urgent Team, one of the largest and fastest growing independent operators of urgent and family care centers across the Southeast, urges families to be on the lookout for head injuries and to take proper precautions to avoid them when possible.
According to the Brain Injury Association of America, the top activities leading to concussions in children and adolescents between 5 and 18 years of age are: football, soccer, basketball, cycling and playground activities. You can help avoid injuries when participating in these activities by making sure you or your children are taking the proper precautions with helmets and pads and checking the age requirements for the equipment.
Sometimes, even the most careful person can have a fall or take a hard hit during a game. When that happens, look for signs of a concussion such as: difficulty thinking/remembering, headaches, difficulty with bright light or loud noises, balance problems or dizziness, changes in mood or emotions such as irritability or sadness and sleeping more or less than usual.
If you or a family member experience a head injury and you suspect a concussion, it is imperative that you seek medical attention. Head injuries can have serious effects and it is important to have a medical professional determine what steps should be taken to recover.
Urgent Team’s providers can assess the severity of a head injury, advise patients on post-injury care and make referrals for more extensive treatment when necessary.
If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to your local Urgent Team Center. Our locations and contact information can be found at UrgentTeam.com.