Florida Hospital Best in Care: Women and Children - Fall 2011 - (Page 5)

increased by more than 200 percent in older teens from 1997 to 2007. An 11-year study published in 2011 in the American Journal of Sports Medicine found that the high school sports with the highest concussion rates were football, girls’ soccer, boys’ lacrosse, girls’ lacrosse, boys’ soccer and wrestling. “There is no gender, sport or age bias for concussions,” says Michael Dougherty, manager, Florida Hospital Sports Concussion Program. “Younger brains heal slower than adult brains, so we must be more cautious and supportive of players who su er head injuries. “Our goal is to make sure kids are completely healed before returning to a contact environment,” says Dougherty. “We have tools for testing and can gauge when athletes have recovered and can safely return to their sport.” EVENT OCT HELPING YOUR CHILD AFTER A CONCUSSION Hear what you need to know about treatment and returning safely to play after a concussion. If you are a parent or coach, this is your chance to ask questions of Melvin Field, MD, at 5:30 pm, October 18, at Florida Hospital Orlando. Reserve your seat at this FREE Q&A by calling (407) 303-BEST (2378). Signs of a Concussion If you’ve sustained a hit or blow to the head, you could have a concussion. Signs and symptoms may occur hours or days after the injury and can include: • Headache • Nausea • Vomiting • Balance problems • Dizziness • Fatigue • Trouble falling asleep • Excessive sleep • Loss of sleep • Drowsiness • Light sensitivity • Noise sensitivity • Irritability • Sadness • Nervousness • More emotional • Numbness • Feeling “slow” • Feeling “foggy” • Diﬃculty concentrating • Diﬃculty remembering • Visual problems If your child experiences any of these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately for an evaluation. A VALUABLE RESOURCE For coaches, athletes and parents like Jose, the Florida Hospital Sports Concussion Program provides a wealth of information — and enhances recovery. Sara’s medical team invited Jose to a concussion clinic, where he learned about symptoms, testing and helping his daughter during recovery. They explained cognitive, physical and emotional issues associated with concussions and what the entire family could do to help Sara recover. Sara returned to school immediately after her concussion but found it difficult to concentrate. Dougherty provided a note for her teachers and coaches, explaining her limitations during recovery: a ban on video games, a 20- to 30-minute span of homework at a time and a lot of rest. Sara returned to playing softball three weeks later, when her verbal, visual and physical tests were normal. “There’s no doubt that Sara would not have recovered as quickly as she did if it weren’t for this program,” says Jose. “Her medical team called and emailed often to check on her and made us feel like she was of the utmost importance to them.” Now in the 11th grade, Sara continues to play catcher for the University High Cougars and is looking forward to an exciting 2011–2012 season. “Everyone made sure I was completely healed before returning to softball,” says Sara. “I hope any athlete who su ers from a concussion has access to a resource like this.” With support from her father, Jose, and the Florida Hospital Sports Concussion Program, Sara Vicente returned to softball in three weeks. HEALTHY 00tips When it comes to produce, the more colors you enjoy, the more nutrients you get. Make it your goal to eat ﬁve or more fruits and vegetables each day. EAT YOUR GREENS ... AND YOUR PURPLES AND YELLOWS FloridaHospital.com 5 http://www.FloridaHospital.com

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Florida Hospital Best in Care: Women and Children - Fall 2011

Florida Hospital Best in Care: Women and Children - Fall 2011
Playing It Safe
6 tips to reduce your breast cancer risk
Bariatric surgery may resolve diabetes
Minimally invasive treatment for endometriosis and infertility
Events Calendar

Florida Hospital Best in Care: Women and Children - Fall 2011