PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — There have been numerous studies on concussions in professional athletes over the past decade, but new information has been released in regards to concussions in kids.
Some sports concussions are obvious — we’ve all seen a pro football player stagger off the field after a hard hit — while others are more subtle.
According to the British Journal of Sports Medicine, concussions are far more common in youth sports than previously thought — and there can be a price to pay.
Researchers found that in a six-month period following a concussion, a young athlete’s risk of depression, anxiety and other mental health issues — including bursts of anger — increase. For most, the symptoms slowly regress, but repeated injuries lead to long-term issues.
KYW Newsradio’s Medical Reports are sponsored by Independence Blue Cross.