Doctors Advise Parents to Watch for Signs of Serious Injuries in Student Athletes

Topeka ER & Hospital's Jeff Whitacre, M.D., says parents play a vital role in monitoring their student athletes' health during this fall's school sports season.

While most injuries are recognized and treated at a game or during practice, Dr. Whitacre says that some injuries can go unnoticed, especially if the athlete doesn't bring attention to it or realizes they are injured.

"Children can sometimes be hesitant to say they've been injured because they might fear not being allowed to play or feel peer pressure to 'stay in the game,'" Dr. Whitacre says.

Because of that, he advises parents to be alert for signs of sports-related injuries in their children, especially head injuries.

"After a head injury, it's vital to be examined for a concussion," Dr. Whitacre says. "If left untreated, a concussion can lead to long-term complications including chronic headaches, memory problems, dizziness or vertigo, and foggy thinking or behavior."

He says the signs of a concussion include confusion, a severe headache, vomiting, excessive sleepiness and loss of consciousness.

For sprains, strains and fractures, Dr. Whitacre says the signs that an injury may require immediate treatment include constant pain and swelling at the injury site along with the inability to bear weight on it.

"Prompt diagnosis and treatment for these injuries is essential because it helps to avoid more serious medical complications later on," he says.

For parents whose student athletes have suffered an injury or condition of any kind, Topeka ER & Hospital is open 24/7 and ready to see them.