A concussion is a brain injury resulting in temporal loss of normal brain function. However, in medical terms, a concussion is a clinical syndrome characterized by transient and immediate alteration in normal brain function.
Although it is usually not severe and can last a few days or weeks, in some instances, concussions can have life-altering effects and may require emergency treatment.
Common causes of concussions that you need to know
1. Car accidents
Car accidents are the leading cause of concussions. In an auto crash, a concussion can occur in two ways; the direct impact of the head against other car components or rapid back and forth movement caused by the energy released at impact.
If you have suffered a concussion after a car accident, it would be best to talk to a car accident lawyer to help you seek damages for your injuries. Depending on the severity of your car accident concussion injuries, your settlement may be upwards of $100,000.so it’s really important that you have an experienced personal injury lawyer on your side.
2. Playing a contact sport.
Concussions are among the most prevalent injuries among athletes. According to the University of Michigan, over 3.8 million concussions occurring in America are sports-related. Unfortunately, most of these injuries go unreported, putting the injured at the risk of prolonged symptoms and long-term consequences.
3. Trips and falls
Trip, slip, and fall accidents are also among the leading causes of concussions. In a trip and fall accident, concussions could result from the rapid jolting of the head during a fall or the head bumping on the floor. Concussions resulting from falls are prevalent among children and older adults.
4. Assault and physical abuse
Unfortunately, not all causes of concussions are accidental. Some can result from deliberate actions of others through acts of violence, such as domestic abuse, bullying, or in the process of commission of other crimes.
If you are hit on the head and exhibit any of the symptoms highlighted below, consult a doctor immediately. You may also need to inform your local police to ensure that the assailant is brought to justice.
Symptoms of concussions
Concussions can be hard to diagnose. While some may be noticeable immediately following an accident, such as passing out, others may not show until hours or even days later. Therefore, it is essential to continue looking out for symptoms within several days or weeks of suffering a head injury.
The following are the main symptoms you will need to look out for to establish if you or your loved one has suffered a concussion.
Observed symptoms
Observed symptoms are the symptoms you can see in a person who has suffered a concussion, which includes:
- Loss of recollection of the details about the accident
- Slurred speech
- The patient may appear stunned or dazed
- Clumsy or uncoordinated movement
- Indications of mood, behavioral, or personality changes
- Having a hard time answering simple questions
- Passing out even briefly
Reported symptoms
Reported symptoms refer to symptoms reported by individuals with concussions which include:
- Headaches or a pressure sensation in the head
- Nausea and vomiting
- Problems keeping balance, dizziness, or double or blurred vision
- Increased sensitivity to light and noise
- Difficulty concentrating
- Memory loss
- Sleeping problems
- A feeling of being “sickly” or “feeling down.”
- Feeling sluggish, foggy, or hazy.
While concussions may be mistaken for mild traumatic brain injuries, they should be taken very seriously as they can result in long-term complications if left untreated. Therefore, if you have suffered a blow to the head through any cause and you are experiencing any or a combination of the symptoms mentioned above, you should seek immediate medical attention.
