Does dehydration increase an athlete’s risk for concussion?

Dehydration risk is higher for athletes participating in intense sports. But does dehydration heighten the risk for concussion?
That’s a question researchers from the University of Windsor have been exploring recently. Their conclusion? Athletes may, in fact, face a greater risk of concussion when dehydrated. But the results weren’t definitive, and lead researcher J. Craig Harwood, speaking for the team, said that more research needs to be conducted.
Dehydration, even mild cases, causes a reduction of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in the brain. For example, some studies have shown that even 2 percent dehydration, which is often signaled by the feeling of thirst, leads to significant reduction in CSF levels. And CSF is important for protecting the brain.
Inside the skull, CSF helps cushion the brain during hard hits and blows. Therefore, the researchers hypothesized, it would seem that dehydrated athletes suffer more concussions.
Looking at data on 420 concussions suffered in NCAA football games between 2008 and 2012, the researchers tried to see if extreme game-time weather — which would heighten the risk for dehydration — led to an increase in concussions.  The problem, though, was that NCAA football is played in the fall, and therefore, extreme weather isn’t likely. Plus, the hydration status of these athletes hadn’t been measured, and the majority of NCAA athletes are well-conditioned for games.
Although the University of Windsor study didn’t find conclusive evidence, the need for proper hydration in sports is still clear. For instance, several studies have linked dehydration with an increased risk for minor injuries like cramps, strains and sprains. And of course, dehydration can lead to serious conditions like heat exertion and heat stroke.
Source: dripdrop.com