Monday, June 11, 2012
NFL lawsuit revisits concussion discussion
Concussions are once again in the news — a massive lawsuit
has been filed by former players against the National Football League, alleging
the NFL has purposely withheld evidence of the long-term effects of head trauma
and concussions.
It remains to be seen whether this is true. But there is no
doubt about the negative impacts concussions can have one someone’s health.
Specifically, young athletes are very much at risk. And with
summer football practices looming, now is the time to learn about the symptoms
of concussion and what to do if you suspect a head injury.
Fortunately, awareness has increased in the youth sports
realm. In many cases coaches are required to receive training on concussions, and
parents are more aware than ever because of all the publicity in recent years.
Concussions are brain injuries caused by a blow to the head.
It is important to note that even a minor bump can cause a serious injury, and
many times symptoms do not emerge until days or even weeks after the injury.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention,
if you are a coach or a parent, watch for these signs:
• An appearance that the victim if dazed or stunned
• Confusion
• Forgetfulness
• Clumsy
• Slow to answer questions
• Loss of consciousness
• Behavior or personality changes
• Can’t recall events prior to or after incident.
Symptoms that athletes may report or exhibit include:
• Headache or “pressure” in the head
• Nausea, vomiting
• Balance problems, dizziness
• Blurry or double vision
• Light sensitivity
• Sluggishness
• Concentration issues
• Memory problems
• Confusion.
The bottom line is concussions are serious, and if a young
athlete shows any signs or symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.
Gillian Mosier, RN, is the Trauma Program Manager at The
William W. Backus Hospital. This column should not replace advice or
instruction from your personal physician. If you want to comment on this column
or others, visit the Healthy Living blog at www.backushospital.org/backus-blogs or e-mail Ms. Mosier or any of the Healthy Living
columnists at healthyliving@wwbh.org
Monday, June 04, 2012
Hurricane season is here, so be prepared
Even before hurricane season officially began June 1, we
already had two named storms, including Tropical Storm Beryl, which barreled up
the east coast and passed to the southeast of Connecticut.
Last year, of course, we were hit by Hurricane Irene, the
first significant hurricane in eastern Connecticut in quite some time.
These are not-so-subtle reminders that “be prepared” is not
just a great motto for the Boy Scouts — it’s important for everyone.
So, before the next natural disaster hits, review and act on these tips that I have compiled from a variety of sources:
• Devise a
plan. Take time before the storm hits to
discuss what to do with your family and neighbors, including finding a safe
place, escape routes, important phone numbers, what to do with your pets and
check insurance coverage.
• Secure
your home. Bring in any objects that can
be blown around, close windows and doors, shut off propane tanks and, if the
storm is imminent, turn refrigerators and freezers up so food will stay fresh
longer if you lose power.
• Make a kit. Make sure you have the supplies you need, such as
water, food, first aid kit, prescription drugs, full vehicle fuel tanks, toiletries,
flashlights, batteries, radio, fully charged cell phones, clothing, sleeping
supplies, clothing, cash, keys, copies of important documents, tools, maps,
camera for photos of damage and specialty items for children, the elderly and
pets.
Living in New England, we learn time and again that we can
be the target of many natural disasters — hurricanes, blizzards, floods,
tornadoes, violent thunderstorms and even earthquakes. Being prepared helps to
limit the damage or improve quality of life, and can even mean the difference
between life and death.
Andrew Ellis is the Associate Administrator of Facilities
and Operations at The William W. Backus Hospital. This column should not
replace advice or instruction from your personal healthcare provider. If you
want to comment on this column or others, visit the Healthy Living blog at www.backushospital.org/backus-blogs
or e-mail Mr. Ellis or any of the Healthy Living columnists at healthyliving@wwbh.org
