Vim & Vigor - Summer 2012 - Phelps County Regional Medical Center - (Page 52)

Knowing the signs of a concussion can save a life The temperatures are high, the food is grilled and outdoor play is abundant—after all, summer weather is meant to be enjoyed. Staying active is a fun and easy way to incorporate healthy exercise, but injuries have been known to happen. Luckily, Phelps County Regional Medical Center (PCRMC) has got you covered: Board-certified sports medicine physician Marino Parra, M.D., brings 15 years of experience to the PCRMC team. Speak Up, Stay Safe! By sOmer OVershON Ah, summertime! THE DANGERS OF CONCUSSIONS Athletes of all ages and experience levels, as well as coaches and parents, need to be aware of the potential dangers caused by concussions. A concussion occurs when a forceful blow to the head or body results in the head moving rapidly back and forth. While concussions are often sports-related, a common fallacy is that concussions only happen to athletes on the playing field. “In reality, you could trip and fall, knock your head and get a concussion,” says Dr. Parra. “Remember which symptoms signify a concussion, and speak up if those symptoms occur. Be sure to tell someone— whether it’s a coach, parent or friend, make sure someone knows you’re experiencing symptoms of a concussion and need to be evaluated by a physician.” The symptoms of a concussion can be subtle—headache, dizziness, loss of concentration—or more evident, such as neck pain, blurred vision or nausea and vomiting. “If you’re playing in a game and suspect you might have a concussion, or simply do not ‘feel right’ after a blow to the head, it is imperative to stop playing,” says Dr. Parra. “Returning to the game with a concussion creates the danger of second-impact syndrome, which occurs when you receive a second concussion when you have not fully recovered from the previous one. A second concussion is so serious that it increases the risk of death by 50 percent.” 52 Vim & Vigor • Sum m er 2 012

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Vim & Vigor - Summer 2012 - Phelps County Regional Medical Center

Vim & Vigor - Summer 2012 - Phelps County Regional Medical Center
Opening Thoughts
Strength in Numbers
Introducing: PCRMC Passport!
Finding the Silver Lining
The Breakfast Club Hop
Arthritis Answers
A TV Guide to Radiology
Take Aim
It Might NOT Be Cancer
Colin Firth
Step Up to the Plate
Life After Cancer
Get Dad to the Doc
Virtual Health
Breathe a Little Easier
Speak Up, Stay Safe!
A Sporting Chance for All
Foundation
Auxiliary

Vim & Vigor - Summer 2012 - Phelps County Regional Medical Center