Saint Francis Concussion Clinic

What is a Concussion?

A concussion is a type of brain injury that changes the way the brain normally works and is caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head.

Concussions are serious business for young athletes, particularly those who play football. Each year, an estimated 1.7 million people sustain a concussive traumatic brain injury, making it a contributing factor to nearly one-third of all injury-related deaths in the United States. Fortunately, early concussion treatment can make a significant difference. That is why Saint Francis Medical Center has developed a Concussion Clinic that specializes in early follow-up and recovery management.

Concussion Symptoms

Signs of concussion include:

Physical

• Headache
• Nausea or vomiting
• Balance problems or dizziness
• Fatigue
• Vision changes
• Sensitivity to light or noise
• Numbness or tingling

Thinking / Remembering

• Difficulty thinking clearly
• Difficulty concentrating or remembering

Emotional

• Irritable
• Nervous
• More emotional than usual
• Sad

Sleep

• Drowsy
• Difficulty falling/staying asleep
• Sleeping more than usual

About the Concussion Clinic in Cape Girardeau

The Saint Francis Medical Center Concussion Clinic provides referring physicians with a specialized resource for early follow-up and management of patients who have suffered a concussion. The Clinic addresses:

• Symptom management
• School or work re-entry
• Return to sports participation

Assessments include:

• Ability to return to school, work or sports
• Rehabilitation needs
• Consultation with other healthcare providers

Contact

Saint Francis Concussion Clinic
3004 Gordonville Road
Cape Girardeau, MO 63703
573–339–4544

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