Parents should know concussion symptoms

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DALLAS, Aug. 31 (UPI) -- Parents of U.S. high school athletes should review the latest guidelines about concussions, sports medicine doctors suggest.

"Parents, coaches and student athletes should know what symptoms to pay attention to," Dr. Robert Dimeff, director of primary care sports medicine at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center and Children's Medical Center in Dallas, said in a statement. "The signs and symptoms can come immediately after the impact or even days later."

In addition, athletes need to let a parent, coach or other adult know if they are feeling signs such as headache or "pressure" in their head, nausea or vomiting, balance problems or dizziness, blurry vision, sensitivity to light or noise, drowsiness or fatigue, and concentration problems or confusion, Dimeff advised.

Parents should also note mood or behavioral changes, including athletes appearing stunned, dazed or confused about homework, particularly work that was not difficult before an injury, Dimeff said.

"These symptoms justify a doctor's visit so a concussion isn't overlooked," Dimeff added.

Parents should also look over the equipment and make sure it fits properly, particularly the helmet, Dimeff said.

"Make sure your athlete knows how to wear it properly and does so even in practice," Dimeff said.