After a childhood outbreak of bacterial encephalitis, is playing in high contact sports (football) dangerous?

Question

My 14 year old brother is just entering high school and as recently as last December suffered from an outbreak of bacterial encephalitis. He is set on playing for his school's football team. His team recently began to practice with full pads on- helmet, shoulder pads, etc. and he reports to suffer from headaches almost immediately after beginning to play.

Is this an after-effect of the encephalitis and is it dangerous?

Answer 1

He should have permission from his pediatrician or family physician. Otherwise there is little risk.

It is currently extremely hot over a large region of the country. Practicing in the heat can lead to headaches, expecially if one does not pay attention to drinking fluids. Water is most important, but sodium and potassium intake are necessary, too. Gatorade or other sports drink without caffeine should suffice. An hour or two before practice, it may be beneficial to eat food high in potassium such as banana, kiwi fruit, tomato or orange juice.