Recognise & Remove

Concussion symptoms can appear immediately or develop up to 48 hours after the incident. If you suspect a player may have sustained a concussion, watch for the following signs and symptoms.

Red Flags (Urgent Medical Attention Required)

If a player shows any of the following, seek urgent medical help immediately:

  • Neck pain

  • Increasing confusion

  • Repeated vomiting

  • Seizures or convulsions

  • Double vision

  • Weakness, tingling, or burning in arms or legs

  • Decreasing level of consciousness

  • Severe or worsening headache

  • Unusual or concerning behaviour changes

 


What You May See:

  • Loss of consciousness

  • Lying on the ground and not moving, or slow to get up

  • Loss of balance or coordination

  • Disorientation or confusion

  • Visible injury to the face or head (especially with other symptoms)

  • Grabbing or clutching the head

  • Dazed, blank, or vacant look

 


What They May Say:

Failure to answer any of the following could suggest a concussion:

  • Where are we playing or training?

  • Which half is it / what time is it now?

  • Who scored last in this game or practice?

  • What team did you play last week?

  • Did your team win the last game?

 


What They May Feel:

  • Blurred vision

  • Dizziness

  • Sensitivity to bright light or loud noise

  • Tiredness or fatigue

  • Memory problems

  • Difficulty thinking or concentrating

  • Feeling more emotional than usual

  • Irritability