Concussion

Also called "Brain concussion", a concussion is a type of brain injury. Luckily the lesser evil form of brain traumas, but recent studies are showing long term sequelae associated with concussions. Technically, a concussion is a short loss of normal brain function in response to a head injury, and people use the term rather loosely to describe any minor, reversable with therapy (hopefully), acute injury to the head or brain. 

Our scull is designed and always ready to withstand a blow, to the best of its ability, and still protect our gooey white/grey matter. Also, organizations are ostensibly cracking down, reviewing, and improving their concussion protocols. Identifying risks is the first step to protect the athletes. That should be enough right? 

Taking the spotlight more frequently than ever, after always being the elephant in the room, concussions in contact sports like Football, Boxing, MMA, etc., still remain a highly controversial topic of discussion. Perhaps because of the financial impact it would impose on the always lucrative business that is, entertainment? Truthfully though, not much force is needed to get concussed. Even playing boardgames may pose as a direct threat and an opportunity for it. Falls, for instance, are the most common source of concussions in the elderly. Either way for devoted fans, morally injured, while wanting to enjoy the blood-thirsty battle, have some safety concerns for the gladiators and their rights/benefits. 

Because getting it usually involves some degree of fun, the aftermath can be quite serious. After a concussion, the patient may experience headache or neck pain, nausea, vomiting, ringing in your ears, dizziness, tiredness, etc. You may feel dazed or not your normal self for several days or weeks after the injury. In more severe cases, seizures may occur, even without previous history, or any family predisposition. As well as permanent damage. Consult your health professional if you notice any of your symptoms getting worse, or if you have more serious symptoms such as seizures or trouble walking or sleeping after head trauma. No matter how small. NEVER SLEEP A CONCUSSION OFF.