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Second-Impact Syndrome
Second-impact syndrome is a rare but serious condition. It occurs when a person receives a second concussion before the symptoms of the first concussion have fully resolved.
Causes
Anyone who has sustained a concussion is at risk for second-impact syndrome. It can occur even when the second concussion is very mild, or when it has occurred days or weeks after the first concussion.
Athletes are at greatest risk for second-impact syndrome. It is especially important to avoid returning to sports such as boxing, football, hockey and football until the first concussion has completely healed and you have been cleared by your doctor to play again.
Symptoms
Second impact injuries can occur days or weeks after the initial impact. It can also occur in the same game if the athlete isn't treated immediately after the first concussion. After a second impact, symptoms often occur right away and progress rapidly. They may include:
- Dilated pupils
- Loss of eye movement
- Loss of consciousness
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- Respiratory failure
- Death
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Prognosis
Second-impact syndrome is fatal in many instances, often within minutes. When it isn't fatal, survivors often experience long-term effects that are similar to traumatic brain injury.
