Traumatic brain injuries are categorized as mild, moderate, or severe brain injury. A concussion is generally considered to be a mild brain injury, but that does not mean it should not be taken seriously. If you were in a car accident or slip and fall and have been diagnosed with a concussion, learn more about this condition and understand your right to compensation.
Symptoms of a Concussion
If you hit your head on the ground in a slip and fall or on the steering wheel in a car accident, it is pretty likely that you have at least a mild concussion. However, you could also sustain a concussion from a hit or jolt to the body that forces the head back and forth rapidly, even when your head is not impacted. Either way, a concussion will cause some or all of the following symptoms:
- Dizziness
- Headaches
- Blurred vision
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Slurred speech
- Confusion
- Ringing in the ears
- Delayed response to questions
- Loss of consciousness
If you experience any of these symptoms after an accident, you should see a doctor for a thorough exam. Early intervention and treatment can prevent more serious and permanent effects of brain damage. If you are diagnosed with a concussion, your treatment plan might consist of the following:
- Rest, pain relievers and ice packs for headaches, and avoiding bright light
- Restricted activities, such as avoiding phone use, television, video games, and reading
- Close monitoring by a doctor who will watch for new or worsening symptoms
- Rehabilitation may be required to regain full functioning in some situations—the goal of rehabilitation after a brain injury is to restore cognitive and physical abilities, promote independence, and improve quality of life.
A very real concern when you have had a concussion is experiencing another blow to the head before the first concussion has healed completely. Repeated concussions can lead to long-term memory loss, psychiatric disorders, brain damage, and other neurological problems.
