In accordance with Brain Injury Awareness Month this March, the Brain Injury Association of New Jersey (BIANJ) is reminding the general public about the seriousness of concussion and the importance of making informed decisions about when it is safe to return athletes to play.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, an estimated 1.6 to 3.8 million sports- and recreation-related concussions occur in the United States each year. Concussions occur even if an athlete doesn’t lose consciousness, and in fact it is the most common type of brain injury sustained in sports. A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury caused by a blow or jolt to the head. The severity of an injury can range from mild to severe. Signs and symptoms may be noticeable immediately, or it may take days or weeks before they are present.
Symptoms and recovery vary for each person, but awareness and seeking medical attention immediately following an incident are crucial steps in caring for yourself, a teammate or family member. Possible signs and symptoms of concussion include nausea, dizziness or balance problems, double or fuzzy vision, sensitivity to light or noise, headache, feeling sluggish or tired, feeling foggy or groggy, or confusion, trouble concentrating, or trouble remembering.
The Brain Injury Association of New Jersey recommends that all athletes who feel they may have sustained a concussion tell their coaches or teammates and ask to be taken out of the game. Also, pay attention to physical changes and be aware of the signs and symptoms listed above. Finally, return to practice and play only after your brain is healed and your healthcare professional says it is okay.
Brain Injury Awareness Month is a critical time when the Brain Injury Association of New Jersey and its partners strive to build public awareness and education. Only by raising public awareness of the “silent epidemic” of brain injury will we begin to see a decrease in the alarming number of injuries sustained every year, an increase in the number of individuals practicing preventative behaviors while at work or play, and a change in the public’s attitude toward individuals with brain injury.
The Brain Injury Association of New Jersey is a statewide organization committed to supporting and advocating for individuals affected by brain injury and raising public awareness through education and prevention. A brain injury can happen to anyone at anytime. For more information on the services and resources of the Brain Injury Association of New Jersey, please call the toll-free helpline at 800-669-4323 or visit www.bianj.org
Barbara Geiger-Parker
President & CEO
BIANJ
North Brunswick