Traumatic Brain Injuries

Traumatic Brain Injuries in Athletes

Laura Jean Anderson, M.D.
VanBuren Ross Lemons, M.D.

Traumatic Brain Injuries in Athlete

Boxing Should Be Banned in Civilized Countries

~George Lundberg, MD
JAMA 249, 1983

What is a TBI?

Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are a significant concern for athletes, particularly those who participate in contact sports such as football, boxing, hockey, and soccer. TBIs can range in severity from mild concussions to more severe injuries that can lead to permanent brain damage or even death.

Repeated head trauma, even if it does not result in a diagnosed concussion, can have long-term effects on an athlete’s cognitive and mental health. Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE), a degenerative brain disease, has been linked to repeated head trauma and is prevalent in many retired athletes.

Athletes with a suspected TBI should seek medical attention immediately. A medical professional can evaluate the severity of the injury and provide appropriate treatment, including rest and rehabilitation. It is essential to allow proper healing time for the brain after a TBI to avoid additional complications and long-term consequences.

Prevention of TBIs is also crucial. Athletes can take steps to protect themselves, such as wearing appropriate safety gear, following proper technique and form, and avoiding dangerous situations whenever possible. Coaches and sports organizations can also implement rules and guidelines to minimize the risk of TBIs and ensure that athletes’ safety is a top priority.

What is Concussion Syndrome?

Signs and symptoms of concussion syndrome are:

1) Headache
2) Nausea/Vomiting
3) Dizziness/Vertigo
4) Vacant Stare
5) Psychomotor Retardation (Delayed verbal and/or motor responses)
6) Confusion
7) Unable to focus attention (Easily distracted)
8) Disorientation (Walking to the wrong corner)
9) Slurred/Incoherent speech
10) Gross In-coordination
11) Agitation
12) Emotional Lability
13) Amnesia (Forgetting the blow); Retrograde Amnesia (Forgetting events before the injury); Antegrade Amnesia (Forgetting events after the injury)
14) Memory Deficits (Repetitive questioning or poor short-term memory)
15) Loss of Consciousness

What is Second Impact Syndrome?

1) Initial traumatic brain injury (cerebral concussion)
2) Persistent post-traumatic symptoms (post-concussive syndrome)
3) Second traumatic brain injury (minor)
4) Collapse into coma
5) Massive cerebral swelling