A team of medical experts is warning the number of youths suffering concussions around the country may be greater than what's been previously estimated.

Researchers at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia recently studied the medical records of more than 8,000 children previously diagnosed with a concussion and concluded that the majority of them sought the aid of a primary care physician before actually going to the emergency room for treatment.

Some Kids may not be Getting the Kind of Help They Need

With that, researchers lament some parents may not be seeking the kind of treatment their children need. Data shows in 2009 nearly 250,000 children and teens sought treatment for brain injuries they suffered in sports or other recreation.

That number was based on the number of visits made to hospital emergency rooms, with head injuries being found to be the most dangerous of all the ailments suffered.

Currently, concussion awareness is at an all-time high, with states like Montana now adopting specific rules aimed at keeping children safer.

"This year our region adopted a rule where there's no heading for 11-year-old and below," said youth coach and referee Devin Harbour. "Any time there's any contact, we stop play (and) the kid comes out. They have to be evaluated by their coach before they can return to the field."

Medical experts advise the symptoms to check for in gauging if medical treatment should be sought include headaches, blurred-vision, nausea and dizziness.

Brain Damage Among the Risks Repeat Sufferers Exposed to

Long term brain damage are among the most severe conditions repeated sports-related concussions can lead to it. Other potential consequences include ALS, Alzheimer's disease, various forms of dementia, Parkinson's disease and severe cognitive impairment.

Researchers stressed the primary message they want to hammer home to parents from all the studying is the understanding that if you think your child's head injury is in any way serious make sure to seek immediate medical attention.

Concussions sufferers are also advised to make certain they rest well, with some experts warning if conditions linger for two weeks or longer it may be time to consult a specialist.

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