Update on Buffalo Bills Player Damar Hamlin's Health After Cardiac Arrest Mid-Game

The Health Status of Damar Hamlin

The collapse of Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin during a game on January 2nd, 2023 has sparked ongoing conversations about player health and safety in the NFL. Hamlin suffered cardiac arrest after making a tackle against the Cincinnati Bengals. The frightening scene saw Hamlin receive CPR on field before being rushed to the hospital.

Hamlin's Recovery So Far

In the days following his collapse, Hamlin has made remarkable strides in his recovery. He was quickly stabilized at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center ICU. Within 48 hours, he was awake and communicating via writing. His breathing tube was removed shortly after and he was able to speak to his family and care team.

Doctors noted that Hamlin did not appear to have suffered any neurological damage from the incident. His brain function was deemed excellent. Aside from being physically exhausted, he demonstrated good neurologic recovery.

A week after being admitted, Hamlin was discharged from the UC Medical Center and transferred to a hospital in Buffalo to continue treatment. He was walking on his own at this time. In a statement, physicians shared that they were "proud to report" his status as being neurologically intact.

What Led to Hamlin's Cardiac Arrest?

Hamlin went into cardiac arrest after making a tackle during the game. He stood up briefly before collapsing backwards onto the field unconscious. Medical examiners have indicated that Hamlin's heart stopped beating entirely at the time of his collapse.

The specific cause behind the cardiac arrest has not been made public knowledge. Hamlin had no known pre-existing heart conditions. One potential factor involves a rare condition called commotio cordis. This refers to disruption of heart rhythm caused by a blow to the chest area.

It's possible the hit Hamlin took triggered his heart to go into ventricular fibrillation and stop pumping blood. Quick reaction and CPR helped restart his heart and prevent brain damage from lack of oxygen.

Concussions and Lasting Impacts

Hamlin's collapse has furthered discussion on the safety of football and potential long term consequences of repeated head injuries. Former players have spoken out about neurological issues believed to be linked to concussions suffered during their careers.

Repeated concussions are connected to heightened risk of memory problems, cognitive decline, and conditions like CTE. CTE or chronic traumatic encephalopathy involves accumulation of tau proteins in the brain leading to deterioration.

Many former NFL players have been diagnosed post-mortem with CTE. Symptoms may include behavioral changes, mood disorders, and loss of impulse control. The families of some players have brought lawsuits against the NFL over concussion-related health conditions.

Steps the NFL is Taking

In wake of controversies around safety and concussions, the NFL has implemented new protocols and rule changes. These aim to reduce the number of head injuries and improve response when they occur.

The league has mandated concussion evaluations for players demonstrating signs of head injury. Return to play decisions are made by independent experts. There are also in-game injury spotters to look for concussion evidence.

To avoid dangerous impacts, new techniques have been adopted for defensive tackles. Kick-offs now involve less high speed collisions as well. Penalties discourage players leading with the helmet on hits.

Continuing the Conversation

What happened to Damar Hamlin was a reminder of the serious risks NFL players undertake. It has brought renewed discussions around safety and healthcare for players both actively competing and long retired.

While advancements have been made, many believe progress hasn't gone far enough. Players and advocacy groups want to see expanded post-career benefits, more effective concussion protocols, and greater acknowledgement of lasting neurological damage.

Hamlin's own frightening experience will hopefully continue meaningful conversations around making the game as safe as possible for players at all levels.

FAQs

What happened to Damar Hamlin?

Damar Hamlin suffered cardiac arrest after making a tackle during an NFL game on January 2, 2023. He collapsed on the field and was administered CPR before being taken to the hospital.

What caused Hamlin's heart to stop?

The specific cause of Hamlin's cardiac arrest has not been disclosed. One possibility is commotio cordis, which is disruption of heart rhythm from a blow to the chest. The impact of the tackle may have triggered this.

How is Hamlin recovering now?

Hamlin has made excellent progress in his recovery so far. He was released from the ICU within a few days and is now rehabbing at a Buffalo hospital. His neurological function appears intact.

Has Hamlin's situation raised concerns about NFL safety?

Yes, Hamlin's collapse has sparked renewed discussions about health risks facing NFL players. Specifically it has highlighted concerns about concussions and conditions like CTE.

What steps is the NFL taking to improve player safety?

The NFL has implemented new concussion protocols, in-game injury spotting, and rule changes to avoid dangerous impacts. However, many believe more progress is still needed in this area.