Maybe the first time you realized how serious concussions could be was when the NFL started fielding lawsuits from former players with repeated head injuries that forever changed – or ended – their lives.

Concussion – the mildest form of traumatic brain injury – can result from an accident, sports injury or fall that can affect brain function temporarily. Sometimes, depending on how the injury is treated or how severe it is, symptoms can persist.

“It’s important that people who exhibit any of the signs of concussion are seen by an expert immediately so the injury can be addressed for the best long-term outcome,” said Dr. Stephanie Alessi-LaRosa, associate director of the Ayer Neuroscience Institute Sports Neurology Program at Hartford HealthCare. “So many of the older approaches to concussion have changed and there are new options for treatment that can be explored.”

Dr. Alessi-LaRosa will discuss the symptoms and treatments for concussion in a free community talk entitled “Concussions: What You Should Know”  Sept. 30 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Avon Free Public Library.

In the talk, she will address:

  • Concussion symptoms.
  • Common myths about concussion. This includes debunking the traditional suggestion that people with concussions should stay quiet and in a dark room to recover.
  • Media influence on the understanding of concussion.

Concussions can happen in all ages, and Dr. Alessi-LaRosa will also talk about how children can safely participate in sports like football and soccer where concussions are not uncommon.
“We do not want to suggest that people avoid certain sports, but understanding how to protect the head while playing is key to one’s health,” she explained.

The event will include a question-and-answer period after Dr. Alessi-LaRosa’s presentation. Light refreshments will be served.

Dr. Stephanie Alessi-LaRosa, associate director of the Ayer Neuroscience Institute Sports Neurology Program with Hartford HealthCare, will discuss the symptoms and treatments for concussion in a free community talk entitled “Concussions: What You Should Know” Sept. 30 from 6:30 to 8:30 pm at the Avon Free Public Library. To register, click here.