March is known as National Traumatic Brain Injury Awareness Month. Each year, more than 2.5 million people experience a traumatic brain injury (TBI), according to the Brain Trauma Foundation.

With spring sports season being in full swing, our team at AFC Urgent Care Gastonia wants you to know how you can protect your young athlete from a TBI while on the field this season, as well as other ways you can reduce your risk of injury throughout your lifetime.

Do Certain Sports Put You at a Higher Risk of TBI?

Although any sport can result in a traumatic brain injury, there are certain sports that pose a higher risk than others. For instance, soccer, basketball, football, ice hockey, wrestling and lacrosse are all sports that can put your athlete at a higher risk of a TBI than others.

Regardless of which sport your child is participating in, ensure he or she knows how to stay safe. This includes wearing sport-specific safety equipment, such as a helmet, and learning and practicing correct form and technique for sport-related movements.

Causes of Traumatic Brain Injury

• Falls
• Vehicle-related collisions
• Violence
• Sports injuries
• Explosive blasts and other combat injuries

How Can You Recognize the Symptoms of TBI?

When it comes to a head injury, including a concussion, you want to make sure you seek medical attention as soon as symptoms appear. That’s why it is important to know the symptoms of TBI and keep a careful eye on your young athlete.

Common symptoms associated with a TBI include headache, confusion, dizziness, blurred vision, tiredness, a bad taste in mouth and/or ringing in the ears. But extreme fatigue and mood changes can also occur, so watch your child for symptoms that are unusual to him or her.

Other Ways to Lower TBI Risk

• Wear your seatbelt.
• Don’t drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
• Don’t text or use a cell phone while driving.
• Practice fall prevention in the home.

Are you nervous your child might have a concussion? Stop by AFC Urgent Care Gastonia today for a medical evaluation. No appointment is necessary.