When you think of suffering a concussion, you probably consider it to be a minor injury. However, any damage done to the brain should be taken very seriously. There are a wide variety of ways you can hit your head hard enough to cause a concussion, including being struck by an object, your head impacting the steering wheel in a wreck, and playing football. Any type of blunt force trauma can result in a concussion.
It is misconception that a concussion causes you to black out. While you may lose consciousness, you may not or you may lose awareness for only a short period of time. In fact, you may only sustain a minor bump, but other symptoms of a concussion include:
- Dizziness
- Confusion and difficulty remembering new information
- Problems with sleeping or sleeping longer than normal
- Irritability
- Depression
- Nausea or vomiting
- Headache
- Amnesia
- Slurred speech and blurred vision
- Fatigue or feeling slowed down
- Sensitivity to light and sound
- Difficulty concentrating
- Memory problems
- Tinnitus, or ringing in the ears
Most victims who suffer a concussion recover from it quickly and completely. However, some people have symptoms for days, weeks, or even longer. Older adults, young kids and teenagers often have slower recovery times. Also, if you have had a prior concussion you are at a higher risk of having another one. The more concussions you suffer, the longer it typically takes for you to recover each time.
Getting rest is one of the most crucial steps in recovering from a concussion because it allows your brain to heal. You should never ignore your symptoms because it can make them get worse. As you begin to feel better and you consult with your physician, you should slowly resume your normal activities. If your symptoms come back or you start to develop new symptoms as you increase your activity, it is a sign that you’re pushing yourself too hard and you need to take more time to recover.
If you have suffered a concussion or other brain injury due to the negligence of another party, contact an experienced personal injury lawyer at Murphy & Garner in Bremen, Georgia, to learn what your legal options are for recovering your medical bills and other expenses. We offer free consultations and dedicated representation based on over 32 years of service to car accident victims in western Georgia and eastern Alabama.