What should I do if I think an athlete has a concussion?
Of any sport, football carries the highest risk of concussion. That’s why it’s crucial to take every head injury seriously and act immediately.
If a teen athlete is showing signs of a concussion, follow these steps:
Stop play: Remove them from the game or practice.
Seek care: Have the child’s caregivers contact their pediatrician, or bring them to your closest Children’s Urgent Care to be assessed.
Follow recovery guidelines: A physician will guide the athlete through recovery, if diagnosed. Before a youth athlete can return to play, he must be cleared by a healthcare provider trained in the management of concussions.
Find more concussion resources to stay informed by visiting choa.org/concussion.
This content is general information and is not specific medical advice. Always consult with a doctor or healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns about the health of a child. In case of an urgent concern or emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department right away.
