If a sports concussion is left untreated or is overlooked by a coach or player, it can lead to serious neurological damage. Any athlete can get a concussion and it should be taken seriously. When an athlete gets a concussion, their brain is pushed around inside of their skull and can become bruised. Concussions temporarily disrupt the brain's normal functions. Adolescent's brains are still developing and when they get a concussion, they are at risk for serious brain damage. When a player gets a concussion, they are "1-2 times more likely to receive a second one" (Sports Concussion Institute par. 7). If a player is not fully recovered and they get another concussion, it can lead to brain damage. Second-impact syndrome (SIS) is when a player suffers another concussion before the symptoms of the first concussion have subsided. SIS is a "matter of life and death or long-term severe disability" it has to be taken seriously (Concussion Prevention par. 12). Concussions can lead to "temporary neurological impairment lasting for varying amounts of time and may affect vision, balance, sleep, and concentration" (Stewart and Shroyer par. 3).
             Athletes will hide their injuries to continue playing because they think that telling someone that they are hurt shows weakness or that it is more important to win the game. This leads to their brain not being able to start to heal and recover. Because players think this, it is "responsible for many injuries that have long-term or debilitating consequences" (Carrick Brain Centers par. 7). By enforcing stricter rules, it can help to reduce the amount or severity of a player's concussion.
             Coaches should be educated on ways to prevent concussions and what to do when a player gets a concussion. Football coaches should ensure that players know the correct way to tackle other players without having to use their head and necks. Coaches should make football pl...