3 Things You Should Know About Concussions

A concussion can occur any time a person suffers trauma to the head that causes the brain to suffer an impact with the interior of the skull, such as a car or bicycle accident. Concussions are a fairly common injury for kids and teens who play contact sports like football. While most people have heard of a concussion, many know very little about this injury. Here, we’ll discuss three things about concussions that you might not be aware of.

• Concussions are a Form of Traumatic Brain Injury

Some people are surprised to learn that concussions are a mild type of traumatic brain injury (TBI). Although concussions are milder than other types of TBI, it is important that you receive attention from a doctor if you suffer from one. A doctor’s diagnosis can not only aid you in getting the medical care you need but also help you pursue a personal injury claim, which may be necessary to recover compensation for your damages. But you will not seek medical care for a concussion if you do not know you have suffered one, which is why it is critical that you know how to recognize this type of injury.

• Concussions are an “Invisible Injury”

Many types of traumatic brain injury, including concussions, are often referred to as “invisible injuries” because they do not necessarily have physical symptoms. Unlike a cut or a burn, a concussion cannot be seen. Many concussion victims mistakenly believe that they are not injured and fail to receive appropriate medical care.

If you or your child suffer any type of impact to the head, it is important to seek medical attention to confirm whether you or your child have suffered a concussion or not. Beyond confirming that a concussion occurred, there is not much a doctor can do to help you or your child recover. 

Concussions require rest, both physical and mental, to heal. This means that if you are suffering from a concussion, you will need to take time off from work to allow yourself time to heal. During this time, avoid mentally strenuous work or even leisure, like video games and computer work. 

• Symptoms of a Concussion Can be Physical or Behavioral

Be aware of the symptoms of a concussion. They include the following:

• Headache
• Confusion
• Vomiting
• Disorientation
• Nausea
• Sensitivity to light
• Ringing in the ears
• Amnesia
• Poor balance
• Excessive sleeping
  

Concussions can also have behavioral symptoms. Sometimes, a victim does not realize they are displaying these symptoms, leaving it up to those around them to recognize the concussion. These symptoms include:

• Irritability
• Depression
• Difficulty paying attention and processing information

Work with a Toledo Personal Injury Attorney

If you or a loved one suffered a concussion in an accident caused by another party’s negligence, seek legal aid from an experienced personal injury attorney as soon as possible after receiving proper medical care. 

At Lafferty Gallagher & Scott, you can find comprehensive, compassionate legal guidance from an attorney who knows Ohio personal injury laws in depth. Do not wait to schedule your initial legal consultation with our skilled injury attorneys.