Recognizing Concussion Symptoms After an Accident and What To Do When You Suspect One
Car accidents can be life-altering, leaving those involved feeling overwhelmed and confused. Among the many injuries that victims of car accidents can suffer, concussions are common yet often overlooked. A concussion can be a serious brain injury if left unaddressed. Knowing the symptoms of concussion to look out for and addressing them properly can significantly impact your recovery. Whether you have been involved in a car accident yourself or are concerned about someone else, understanding the signs of concussion and the next steps is crucial.
What Is a Concussion?
During an accident, sudden force can cause the head to jolt suddenly, impacting the brain, with or without impact. This is what is referred to as a concussion. A concussion is a brain injury caused by a sudden blow or jolt to the head. While some concussions are mild, others can have more life-threatening consequences if not promptly and properly addressed. Many assume that unless you experience immediate disorientation or lose consciousness, you don’t have a head injury. However, this is far from true because concussions don’t always involve a loss of consciousness. Many people who sustain a concussion remain fully alert, which can make it challenging to recognize the injury. This is why being aware of the symptoms is essential.
Symptoms of a Concussion
Concussion symptoms vary from one individual to the other and may not appear immediately after an accident. While some notice the signs within minutes, others experience delayed symptoms hours or even days after the accident. Some of the most common symptoms of concussion to watch out for include the following:
Physical Symptoms:
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Nausea and vomiting
- Blurred vision
- Light and noise sensitivity
Cognitive Symptoms:
- Confusion or amnesia
- Concentration problems
- Slower response times
Emotional Symptoms:
- Irritability, mood swings, or sadness
- Fatigue
- Trouble sleeping
A concussion from a car accident can also result in a traumatic brain injury (TBI), a severe condition that can impair cognitive functions and cause a permanent life-altering disability. TBIs are also responsible for one-third of all injury-related fatalities in the United States. If you or a loved one has experienced a concussion or brain injury after a car accident, consider consulting a car accident lawyer to explore your legal options.
What To Do When You Suspect a Concussion
If you suspect that you or someone you care about may have sustained a concussion after a car accident, it is important to take the following steps:
- Contact Your Family Doctor or a Health-Care Provider Immediately
If you display or notice any signs of concussions, seek medical attention immediately. Even if the symptoms seem mild, it is best to see a doctor to rule out a concussion.
- Monitor the Symptoms Closely
Keep an eye on your symptoms and seek further medical help if they worsen or new symptoms develop.
- Rest and Avoid Strenuous Activities
After experiencing a concussion, it is important to rest for several days to allow your brain to heal and prevent the problem from worsening.
Contact a Fort Lauderdale Car Accident Lawyer
If you’ve been involved in a car accident, contact our experienced Fort Lauderdale car accident lawyer at The Pendas Law Firm to protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve.
The Pendas Law Firm also represents clients in the Ocala, Jacksonville, Fort Myers, Miami, Daytona Beach, Tampa, Bradenton, Orlando, West Palm Beach, Naples, and Melbourne areas.
Source:
pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4604943/#:~:text=Nearly%20one%20third%20(30.5%25),and%20psychologic%20impairments%20(6).