Syracuse (WSYR-TV) - Head injuries can be dangerous, especially if a player goes back too soon.
High school lacrosse player Chloe Jeng has a wicked wrist shot, but a shot to her head during a club lacrosse game is what ruined her season. "I mostly just wanted to get back in the game and start playing again," she said.
It's good she didn't. 80 percent of all concussion cases are diagnosed as mild. But 75 percent of patients don't seek medical help unless their condition gets worse.
Dr. Michael Yochelson of the National Rehabilitation Hospital in Washington, D.C., says spotting brain injuries is key. The biggest tip-off is failure to remember the injury.
Other warning signs include headaches, dizziness, nausea, and trouble thinking.
One concussion, then another too soon could lead to second impact syndrome, which could lead to death.
40 percent of prep athletes return from concussions before they're fully healed.
Jeng decided not to become a part of that substantial percentage. "It was kind of rough at first, but it was definitely worth it," she said.
The best remedy for someone who may have had a concussion - bed rest and a trip to the doctor.
