What is Second Impact Syndrome (SIS)?
Second Impact Syndrome (SIS) refers to the catastrophic events which may occur when a second concussion occurs while the athlete is still symptomatic and healing from a previous concussion. The second injury may occur anytime from days to weeks following the first. Loss of consciousness is not required. The second impact is more likely to cause brain swelling and other widespread damage and can be fatal. What can a coach do to help prevent concussions? Even in contact sports, some concussions may be prevented by teaching and executing proper playing, tackling and defensive techniques, and by wearing properly fitted equipment, especially helmets.
