Sport-related concussion is a clear and present danger in all sports that feature direct and incidental blows to the head. Additionally — because concussion is caused by the rotation of the brain inside the skull — blows to other parts of the body, which elicit a ‘whiplash’ effect on the head and neck can also result in symptoms of concussion.
Concussion symptoms typically include prolonged bouts of light sensitivity, headaches, dizziness, changes in mood, memory loss, sleep disturbance, inability to walk straight, and a decreased ability to focus. In some cases — including those involving professional MMA fighters — these symptoms last for years.