Missouri Legislature Passes Bill to Fight Brain Injury in Teen Athletes
The Missouri House of Representatives recently passed a bill that requires high school athletes to “sit out” a game if they show symptoms of a concussion or a similar traumatic brain injury. Before the student can play or practice again, he or she must sit out at least 24 hours and be cleared to play by a licensed physician or health care professional.
The purpose of the bill is to protect high school athletes from compounding a Missouri traumatic brain injury by ensuring a concussion has time to heal before the student risks another blow to the head. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), even a mild bump or blow to the head can result in a concussion. Common symptoms include dizziness, nausea, headache or head pain, blurry or double vision, and concentration or memory problems.
When an athlete suffers a second traumatic brain injury before the first has had time to heal, the athlete faces a significant risk of permanent brain damage. Keeping students out of the game and having them evaluated by a health care professional can prevent more serious brain injury.
Traumatic brain injuries like concussions can have a lasting impact on a person’s life, especially if the injury is severe. If you or someone you love has suffered a concussion or other brain injury, the experienced Missouri traumatic brain injury attorneys at Page Law may be able to help. For more information or to schedule a free and confidential consultation, call Page Law today at 314-322-8515.
