Second Impact Syndrome

Overview

Second Impact Syndrome (SIS) is a rare but life-threatening condition that occurs when a second concussion is sustained before full recovery from an initial head injury. It can lead to rapid brain swelling, loss of consciousness, and, in severe cases, permanent disability or death.

At The New Foscote Hospital, we provide private outpatient services to assess, manage, and monitor adults recovering from sports-related concussion. Our goal is to reduce the risk of serious complications such as Second Impact Syndrome and ensure a safe return to activity.

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What Is Second Impact Syndrome?

Second Impact Syndrome occurs when the brain suffers a second blow—even a minor one—before the symptoms of a previous concussion have resolved. The brain may lose its ability to regulate blood flow, leading to cerebral oedema (brain swelling) and increased pressure within the skull.

While SIS is extremely rare, it is a medical emergency and is most often reported in younger athletes. Nonetheless, any adult with ongoing symptoms from a concussion is advised to avoid returning to sport or physical activity until fully cleared by a medical professional.

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Who Is at Risk?

SIS is more likely to affect individuals who:

• Have sustained a concussion within the last few days or weeks
• Return to contact sport or intense physical activity too early
• Ignore or downplay symptoms such as dizziness or mental fog
• Have had multiple concussions over time
• Are not under medical supervision following their head injury

Even in the absence of unconsciousness, the brain remains vulnerable after the initial trauma.

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Symptoms of Second Impact Syndrome

SIS develops rapidly after the second injury, often within minutes. Warning signs may include:

• Sudden collapse
• Loss of consciousness
• Dilated pupils
• Difficulty breathing
• Rapid deterioration in responsiveness
• Seizure activity

Immediate emergency treatment is required. While SIS itself is managed in critical care settings, the key is prevention through proper concussion management.

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Our Outpatient Services at The New Foscote Hospital

We provide comprehensive outpatient care to minimise the risk of complications from concussion and to advise on when it is safe to return to sport or exercise.

Services may include:

Neurology Assessment

• Review of concussion history and symptoms
• Monitoring of recovery progression
• Risk stratification for second injuries
• Medical clearance for return-to-activity decisions

MRI Brain Imaging

• May be used to investigate prolonged symptoms
• Available on-site for faster diagnosis and reassurance

Concussion Management Planning

• Symptom tracking and follow-up appointments
• Guidance on rest, pacing and graded return-to-play protocols

Psychological Support

• Cognitive and emotional support for prolonged recovery
• Addressing anxiety, fear of re-injury or performance concerns

Physiotherapy

• Vestibular rehab for dizziness or balance issues
• Energy management for fatigue and return-to-exercise programming

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Who We Help

We support adults (18+) who:

• Are recovering from a recent concussion or head injury
• Need medical advice about returning to sport or work
• Have persistent symptoms following a sports injury
• Are concerned about the risks of re-injury or long-term complications

To book a private consultation, call 01295 252281 or contact us online.

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Why Choose The New Foscote Hospital?

• Rapid access to experienced consultants
• On-site diagnostics including MRI
• A calm, private outpatient environment
• Personalised care plans with multidisciplinary input
• Trusted by patients across Oxfordshire and the Midlands