Many injuries suffered after an accident are visible to the naked eye—lacerations, puncture wounds, and bruises. But invisible injuries, such as concussions, are no less dangerous. If you suffered a blow to the head, seek medical treatment immediately and contact a personal injury attorney to see if you qualify for compensation.
What Are Common Concussion Symptoms?
Not every blow to the head will cause a concussion, so it’s not always easy to tell when you sustain one. However, common symptoms should cause you to investigate further: (1) Headaches that worsen, (2) Nausea and vomiting, (3) Dizziness, (4) Blurred vision, and (5) Sensitivity to light.
Concussion victims might also have trouble thinking clearly or remembering facts and details. Their sleep might also become interrupted, and they might quickly rise to anger or fall into sorrow. Only a qualified physician can diagnose whether you suffered a concussion, so don’t delay seeing a doctor or visiting an emergency room.
If a loved one suffers a blow to the head, immediately stabilize that person. After a bad accident (like a car wreck), you’re probably better off calling emergency services, which can come out and make sure you don’t do more damage during transportation to the hospital. Otherwise, you should take your loved one to the hospital as soon as possible.
At the hospital, a doctor will review your medical history and the details of the event (if you remember them). Tell your doctor if you suffered a blow to the head before or if you are on medication that thins your blood, since both of these facts put you at a higher risk of complications.
As part of the diagnosis, the doctor will ask you questions about the injury, which test your ability to remember information and focus. A doctor may also schedule neuropsychological tests or a CT scan to look at an image of your brain. During diagnosis, answer your doctor’s questions honestly so that your doctor can make a realistic assessment of the situation.
Some concussions clear up within seven to 10 days, but other people need more time to fully recover. It’s important not rush your recovery. If you are involved in strenuous activities, slow down as soon as you begin to feel dizzy or unwell. Rest is particularly important so that you don’t suffer a second concussion soon after the first, which could result in more serious brain trauma. In all instances, follow your doctor’s directions closely and call if you notice that your symptoms are not improving. Your doctor might need to perform additional tests to see if your condition is worse than originally assumed.
The brain is highly sensitive, and concussion victims should take their recovery seriously. If you were injured through no fault of your own, then seek out compensation to help make you whole. If you have been in an accident that has led to a crash resulting in traumatic brain injury, don’t assume that liability is yours alone.