What catastrophic condition can occur if an individual suffers a second concussion before the first has healed?

Second impact syndrome occurs when an individual sustains a second concussion before the symptoms of a previous concussion have resolved. This can lead to rapid and severe cerebral swelling, which can result in devastating complications, including neurological impairment or even death. The condition is particularly dangerous because the brain may not be able to manage the additional stress imposed by the second injury, leading to an exacerbation of the initial symptoms and creating a cascade of complications.

Understanding this phenomenon highlights the importance of proper recovery times between concussions and the need for comprehensive evaluation after an initial head injury. The risk of severe outcomes associated with returning to sports or other activities too soon after a first concussion underscores the significance of education and protocols to protect athletes and others from this critical condition.

The other choices signify different aspects of head trauma or neurological conditions but do not specifically describe the catastrophic consequences of receiving a second concussion prematurely, which is characterized by the rapid onset of severe swelling and neurological symptoms that define second impact syndrome.