“this method has lots of promising applications,” hicks says. “a rapid, reliable diagnostic means that early, appropriate action can be taken to alleviate the symptoms of patients with concussions.”
in the future, hicks hopes that a test and portable technology could be used by athletic trainers right after an injury happens, emergency responders after accidents or even army medics on the battlefield.
according to health canada, 46,000 children aged 5 to 19
had a concussion
in 2016-2017. many of these were sports-related and, depending on age group, linked to hockey, ringette and rugby.
doctors have urged parents, school staff and health professionals not to underestimate concussions.
writing in the globe and mail,
neurosurgeon karen johnston warned that concussions can “can have nasty, long-term consequences. people with untreated concussion may suffer from headaches and fatigue — sometimes for years. they aren’t as sharp as they should be mentally and they can’t focus.”
studies have
also linked
concussions to mood disorders and an increase in suicide risk.
don’t miss the latest on covid-19, reopening and life. subscribe to healthing’s daily newsletter covid life.