Heads Up: Concussion in Hockey

Concussion Signs and Symptoms
Athletes who experience one or more of the signs and symptoms listed below after a bump, blow, or jolt to the head or body may have a concussion.

Signs Observed by Coaching Staff
Appears dazed or stunned 
Is confused about assignment or position
Forgets an instruction 
Is unsure of game, score, or opponent 
Moves clumsily
Answers questions slowly 
Loses consciousness (even briefly)
Shows mood, behavior, or personality changes
Can’t recall events prior to hit or fall
Can’t recall events after hit or fall

Symptoms Reported by Athlete
Headache or “pressure” in head
Nausea or vomiting
Balance problems or dizziness
Double or blurry vision
Sensitivity to light 
Sensitivity to noise
Feeling sluggish, hazy, foggy, or groggy
Concentration or memory problems
Confusion
Just not “feeling right” or is “feeling down”

Heads Up Concussion Action Plan
If you suspect that an athlete has a concussion, you should take the following four steps.
Remove the athlete from play.

Ensure that the athlete is evaluated by a health care professional experienced in evaluating for concussion. Do not try to judge the seriousness of the injury yourself.

Inform the athlete’s parents or guardians about the possible concussion and give them the fact sheet on concussion.

Keep the athlete out of play the day of the injury and until a health care professional, experienced in evaluating for concussion, says they are symptom-free and it’s OK to return to play.

It’s better to miss one game than the whole season.

For more information, please visit: www.cdc.gov/Concussion.


U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention				


June 2010