Study shows teenage concussions can affect academic performance

ORLANDO, Fla. — A new study published in the journal "Pediatrics" has some startling numbers about teen athletes and their academic performance after a concussion.

The study reports that nine out of 10 concussion victims struggle with their school grades for months afterwards.

An Orlando family told Channel 9 how a sport meant to get a teenager to go to college could now jeopardize her future.

Kendalle Holley, 14, plays girls lacrosse, in which they don't wear helmets. Holley was hit in the back of the head by an opponent several months ago.

"I missed a month. I didn't go back for a month," Holley said.

She was a straight A student, but months after the hit, she still suffers headaches and dizzy spells. It has started to take a toll on her school grades.

"I went from a 4.0 student to failing my tests and not being able to comprehend, and EOCs and courses. I'm just plummeting," Holley said.

The study's results are similar to Holley's story. Out of 349 teenagers who sustained concussion nationwide, 240 told researchers they were struggling academically months later.

"In the older children, they tend to be plagued by academic problems, inability to concentrate, inability to get their schoolwork done in a timely fashion," said Dr. Todd Maugans, Nemours pediatric neurosurgeon.

The Holley family plans to meet with the school district to try to fight for better care on the field, including wearing helmets.

The study suggests that schools should offer reduced workloads and the option to re-schedule tests in the weeks after a concussion.

WFTV