Protecting your brain from having another injury
Most people get better after a concussion and go back to their normal activities. But even when you are better from your concussion, you should still take care of your brain and protect it from another injury. The following tips can help lower the risk of a brain injury:
- Always wear a seat belt when you are in a car
- Always wear a helmet when you are riding a bike, skateboard, or doing anything else where you might hit your head. Helmets do not prevent concussions but they can prevent more serious injuries to the brain.
- Stay safe and prevent falls. Learn more about fall prevention in the dizziness & changes in balance section »
Keep in mind that there is a small group of people who may have symptoms that do not go away over time. Having a second concussion before you have fully recovered from the first concussion can make your symptoms last longer.
In some rare cases, having another concussion before the brain has healed can lead to swelling in the brain. This is called “second impact syndrome.” The risk of second impact syndrome is higher in contact sports such as football, hockey, soccer and boxing.
Do not go back to sports if you have any concussion symptoms or signs. Going back to sport or physical activity too soon can affect your recovery from concussion and put you at risk for another concussion.
Talk your doctor before going back to contact sports or activities where there is risk of hitting your head.
NEVER RETURN TO PLAY IF YOU HAVE SYMPTOMS! IF IN DOUBT, SIT OUT
