A concussion is a type of injury to the brain that is usually caused by a blow to the head, fall, or other injury that shakes the brain inside the skull. This often happens in a car accident. Even though there may be cuts and bruises on the victim’s head, there may not be any other visible signs of an injury to the brain.
You won’t necessarily pass out if you suffer a concussion. Some people may have the obvious symptoms like passing out or forgetting what happened right before the accident, while others won’t. It is important to remember that after a concussion your brain is much more sensitive to damage. In some rare cases, a concussion can cause serious issues. Since serious problems can occur, it is best you seek medical attention right away.
Causes of a Concussion
Your brain is a very soft organ surrounded by spinal fluid and is protected by your skull. The fluid surrounding your brain is like a cushion that keeps your brain from hitting your skull. However, if your head or body is hit hard, your brain can be slammed into the side of your skull and become badly injured. You can suffer a concussion by getting into a car accident, falling, or participating in various sports like football or boxing.
Symptoms of a Concussion
You may think it’s easy to know if you have suffered a concussion, but it isn’t always that simple. Symptoms range from mild to severe. They can last for hours, days, weeks, or even several months. Symptoms of a concussion fit into four different categories:
Thinking and remembering:
· Unable to think clearly
· Difficulty remembering
· Slowed-down feeling
· Unable to concentrate
Physical Symptoms
· Headache
· Vomiting
· Nausea
· Blurry vision
· Light or noise sensitivity
· Balance issues
· Tired feeling
Sleep Issues
· Sleeping more than normal
· Sleeping less than normal
· Hard time getting to sleep
Emotional Issues
· Angered easily
· More emotional
· Sadness
· Anxious or nervous
Children may have the same symptoms of a concussion as an adult does, but sometimes it’s hard to tell of a child really does have a concussion. Young children may have different symptoms that include:
· More crying than normal
· A headache that won’t go away
· Changes in behavior when they play
· Changes in sleeping and eating
· More temper tantrums than normal
· Sadness
· Not interested in their usual activities
· Loss of balance
· Trouble walking
· Unable to pay attention
Concussions in older adults can be quite dangerous. Concussions in older adults are sometimes missed. If you happen to be caring for an older adult who has had a fall or has been in an accident, check them for symptoms of a concussion. A headache that gets worse or signs of increasing confusion are a big warning sign. Get them to a doctor right away if you see these signs. Also get to the doctor right away if this person is on blood thinners.
Post-Concussion Syndrome
After a concussion you may feel like you are not functioning like you did before your injury. This is called post-concussive syndrome. New symptoms may appear or you may continue to be bothered by the following:
· Difficulty concentrating
· Headaches
· Blurry vision
· Sleep disturbance
· Angry or anxious for no reason
· Not interested in favorite activities
· Dizziness
· Lightheaded
· Unsteady or difficulty walking
Diagnosing a Concussion
If you think you may have a concussion you need to see a doctor right away. The doctor will ask questions about your injury. The doctor will ask questions that test your ability to pay attention, how fast you can solve problems, or show you objects, take them away, and then ask you to recall them from memory. The doctor will also check your balance, reflexes, and coordination. The doctor may order a CT scan or an MRI to make sure your brain is not bruised or bleeding.
Treating a Concussion
Rest is the best solution for recovering from a concussion. Your body and your brain both need to rest. Here are some things to help you get better:
· Get plenty of sleep at night
· Take it easy during the day
· Avoid alcohol
· Don’t take any medication unless it’s ok with your doctor
· Avoid activities that are physically and mentally demanding
· Don’t drive unless the doctor says it’s ok
· Use ice or cold packs for swelling
· Use pain medication as directed by your doctor
St. Louis Personal Injury Attorney
If you or a loved one has suffered a concussion in a car accident or some other type of accident, you need the advice of an experienced personal injury lawyer.
CONTACT the Lieser Law Firm today for your FREE case evaluation.