Concussion 101: What Parents, Athletes, Coaches Should Know

This article was written by Aysha Jamali.

Michigan's new concussion law, which went into effect in June, regulates sports concussions and students' return to athletic activity. 

Parents are required by the law to sign a specific statement before their children are allowed to participate in sports or physical education classes. The required form educates parents on the signs, symptoms and consequences of concussions.

Here are 10 concussion symptoms often reported by athletes and 10 signs often observed by coaches, according to the Michigan Department of Community Health. 

Symptoms reported by an athlete:

1. Headache or “pressure” in head
2. Nausea or vomiting
3. Balance problems or dizziness
4. Double or blurry vision
5. Sensitivity to light
6. Sensitivity to noise
7. Feeling sluggish, hazy, foggy, or groggy
8. Concentration or memory problems
9. Confusion
10. Just not “feeling right” or is “feeling down”

Signs observed by coaching staff:

1. Appears dazed or stunned
2. Is confused about assignment or position
3. Forgets an instruction
4. Is unsure of game, score, or opponent
5. Moves clumsily
6. Answers questions slowly
7. Loses consciousness (even briefly)
8. Shows mood, behavior, or personality changes
9. Can’t recall events prior to hit or fall
10. Can’t recall events after hit or fall