The topic of concussions is increasingly in the news as they relate to sports injuries, but car, motorcycle, pedestrian, and many other types of accidents may also be the cause of concussions. Even if you received immediate medical attention after an accident, the symptoms of a concussion may not have been easily detected. As with several types of problems that can surface days or even weeks after an accident, concussion symptoms may not be diagnosed right away. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, some people don’t recognize or admit they’re experiencing symptoms, or don’t notice their symptoms until they resume their everyday life.
A concussion is defined by the Mayo Clinic as a “traumatic brain injury that affects your brain function.” While some of the effects are temporary, others may last for weeks or longer. If you’ve been in an accident, these are some of the indications that you may have suffered a concussion:
- Dizziness
- Headache
- A sensation of pressure in your head
- Confusion
- Nausea or vomiting
- Fatigue
- Slurred speech
- Ringing in your ears
- Having a delayed response to questions
Delayed signs and symptoms that may not appear right away include:
- Disturbances in your sleep
- A new sensitivity to noise or light
- Personality changes, such as irritability
- Trouble with memory or concentration
- Changes in smell or taste
- Psychological problems
- Depression
When you or your loved one should see a doctor.
Even if you or a loved one are not in need of emergency medical care, any head injury should be checked out promptly. Emergency care, however, should be immediately sought if you have a headache that continues to worsen or you experience repeated vomiting, seizures or convulsions, vision disturbances, lasting dizziness, or persistent disorientation.
If your child has received a jolt, bump or blow to the head and has any of the above-listed warnings signs, won’t eat or nurse or can’t stop crying, get emergency medical treatment right away.
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Remember: Some injuries don’t become apparent until hours, days, weeks or even months after an accident. If you’ve been injured in an accident, Harrell & Harrell, P.A., is here to help. Contact our personal injury lawyers online or call us at 904-251-1111 or toll-free at 1-800-251-1111 today.