Imagine someone driving home after a long day at work, when suddenly, another vehicle runs a red light and crashes into their car. The impact is jarring, and their head strikes the steering wheel despite the airbag deploying. In the aftermath, they feel disoriented, with a throbbing headache and a sense of confusion.
This scenario is all too common and can lead to a concussion, a type of traumatic brain injury (TBI) that, although considered mild, can persist for weeks, months or even longer.
Definition and symptoms
Concussions occur when a sudden movement or impact causes the brain to agitate violently inside the skull, potentially leading to symptoms like:
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Vomiting
Other symptoms may include lack of coordination, ear ringing, changes in mood, confusion, sleep disturbances and excessive fatigue. After a car accident, if you suspect a concussion, it is essential to seek medical attention promptly.
Be aware of red flags such as repeated vomiting, severe headache, weakness, numbness, decreased coordination or slurred speech. These could indicate a more severe brain injury and require urgent medical attention.
Diagnosis and treatment
Diagnosis typically involves different types of examinations like neurological examination, physical exam and cognitive assessment. Sometimes, doctors request imaging tests like CT scans or MRIs to rule out more severe brain injuries, although they may not always detect concussions.
Treating a concussion requires rest for both the body and mind. This includes avoiding activities like exercise, reading and screen time that might worsen symptoms. Specialized physical, occupational or cognitive therapies may help with recovery.
A concussion may prevent you from working and participating in other daily activities, leading to financial and personal challenges. It’s essential to seek legal advice to explore options for compensation to cover medical expenses, lost wages and other related costs.
A concussion is often referred to as a mild brain injury because it is usually not life-threatening. However, the term mild can be misleading. The effects of a concussion can be quite severe and last for a long time.