Final answer:
A repeat concussion before the brain has recovered from an initial one can lead to severe, long-term cognitive difficulties. This is a serious concern in contact sports, and adequate recovery time is essential.
Step-by-step explanation:
A repeat concussion that occurs before the brain has had a chance to recover from the first one can lead to lasting and potentially severe health issues. A single concussion might not cause permanent damage, but repeated concussions may lead to long-term difficulties with cognitive functions such as memory, learning, speech, and balance. This is why concussions are taken seriously, especially among athletes in contact sports where the risks are higher. It's critical to allow ample time for recovery after a concussion to prevent the risk of further injury and the compounding of effects.