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"Head Injuries in Football." //The New York Times//. 21 Oct. 2010. Web. 27 Aug. 2012. .

1. Head injuries, including concussions, particularly in the game of American football, have become a subject of deep concern, much study and even Congressional hearings in the United States. 2. A 2000 study surveyed 1,090 former N.F.L. players and found more than 60 percent had suffered at least one concussion in their careers and 26 percent had had three or more. 3. This violent shaking causes the brain cells to become depolarized and fire all their neurotransmitters at once in an unhealthy cascade, flooding the brain with chemicals and deadening certain receptors linked to learning and memory. 4. The results often include confusion, blurred vision, memory loss, nausea and, sometimes, unconsciousness. 5. A 2007 study conducted by the University of North Carolina's Center for the Study of Retired Athletes found that of the 595 retired N.F.L. players who recalled sustaining three or more concussions on the football field. 6. 20.2 percent said they had been found to have depression. That is three times the rate of players who have not sustained concussions. 7. If you’re easily distracted, try to do one thing at a time.For example, don’t try to watch TV while fixing dinner.•Consult with family members or close friends when making important decisions. 8. Do not neglect your basic needs, such as eating well and getting enough rest. 9. Avoid sustained computer use, including computer/video games early in the recovery process. 10. Some people report that flying in airplanes makes their symptoms worse shortly after a concussion.
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11. Having the child get plenty of rest. Keep a regular sleep schedule, including no late nights and no sleepovers. 12. Giving the child only those drugs that are approved bythe pediatrician or family physician. 13. Sharing information about concussion with parents,siblings, teachers, counselors, babysitters, coaches, and others who interact with the child helps themunderstand what has happened and how to meet thechild’s needs. 14. CDC’s Injury Center has created resources and conducts research to help prevent concussion and more seriousbrain injuries and improve outcomes for survivors. 15. The Brain Injury Association of America (BIAA) has a national network of many state affiliates andhundreds of local chapters and support groups acrossthe country that provide help in your community.