CONCUSSIONS HAPPEN IN MOTORSPORTS
A concussion is a traumatic brain injury (TBI) that affects your brain function. Effects are usually temporary but can include headaches and problems with concentration, memory, balance and coordination. However, the effects are not always immediate - and it why, after an impact, drivers need to be tested. ImPACT™ is a commonly used test for immediate post-concussion assessment and cognitive testing
“When in doubt sit them out”
Common symptoms of a concussion may include:
Headache or pressure in the head.
Confusion or feeling disoriented.
Amnesia or difficulty remembering events before or after the injury.
Nausea or vomiting.
Dizziness or balance problems.
Blurred or double vision.
Sensitivity to light and noise.
Fatigue or drowsiness.
Slurred speech.
Difficulty concentrating or making decisions.
Irritability or mood changes.
Clumsiness
Sensitivity to light
Sensitivity to noise
Sluggishness
Ringing in the ears
Irritability or other behavior or personality changes
Difficulty concentrating
Loss of memory
Loss of consciousness
Forgetfulness such as repeating yourself
Slowed response to questions
Problems with sleep
Depression
Problems with taste or smell
ImPACT™ is an objective tool to support trained healthcare providers in making sound ‘return to activity decisions’ following concussions. It's a computerized test that measures memory, attention span, visual and verbal problem solving.
Concussions are usually caused by a blow to the head. Violent shaking of the head (side-to-side and front-to back) and also the upper body can also result in a concussion. Sudden movement (s) where the brain bangs against the side of the skull or moves rapidly back and forth causes the concussion. These violent movements can stretch and damage the brain tissue, which triggers a chain of harmful consequences that interfere with normal brain activities.
