The dangers of concussions among student athletes will be the topic of a public forum tonight at Santa Fe Christian High School. Concussions make up nearly one in ten sports injuries.
The aim of the forum is to raise awareness of the symptoms of concussion and the need to allow adequate recovery time.
Dr. Michael Lobatz, a neurologist at Scripps Memorial Hospital in Encinitas, said it's crucial to avoid second impact syndrome, which is caused by an another concussion before someone's recovered from the first.
"Second impact syndrome can be very serious and actually involve permanent brain damage, brain swelling, and even death," Dr. Lobatz pointed out.
Lobatz said football is the number one cause of concussions among student athletes. But surprisingly, cheerleading is number two. Lobatz said that's because cheerleaders often perform very complex, potentially dangerous moves, and never wear a helmet.
Last year, a new rule was adopted that governs high school athletes in San Diego County. Kids who are suspected of suffering a concussion must be evaluated by a doctor before they can return to play.
