What can happen if an athlete who had a concussion returns to competition too soon?

What can happen if an athlete who had a concussion returns to competition too soon?

Returning to competition too soon could put you at risk for a second concussion. A repeat concussion that occurs before your brain has recovered from a first one is called second impact syndrome.

Second impact syndrome can:

• Make your symptoms last longer than they would have if you rested and fully recovered.
• Slow your overall recovery.
• Increase the chances for long-lasting or permanent problems.

Long-lasting problems include difficulties with concentration and memory, headaches, and sometimes physical skills like maintaining your balance. Although this is rare, returning to competition without being fully recovered and getting hit again could result in a brain hemorrhage or even death. Never return to competition until ALL your symptoms are gone and you feel you are 100% back to your normal self.