A concussion is a type of mild traumatic brain injury (TBI) that is caused by a blow or jolt to the head or body, or any sudden impact that causes the brain to move rapidly back and forth within the skull. The injury results in temporary changes in brain function that can affect how the brain processes information and may cause a variety of physical, cognitive, and emotional symptoms.
Concussions are frequently caused by impacts to the head, which can occur in a variety of accidents such as car accidents, motorcycle accidents, bicycle accidents, slip and fall accidents, and during sports activities. Although the term “concussion” is a medical term, it often arises in legal cases related to accidents due to its prevalence and potential severity.
Concussions as a Mild Injury vs Minor Injury:
Contrary to popular belief, concussions are not minor injuries. They involve damage to the brain and can have long-lasting effects. Although there are anecdotal stories of individuals appearing to quickly recover from a head injury, the reality is that even mild concussions can result in significant pain and discomfort that can last for weeks or even months. Additionally, many concussions involve serious complications such as skull fractures, brain damage, or swelling that pose a danger to the brain, even if symptoms are not immediately apparent.
Concussions can also cause various other issues, including:
- difficulty chewing or eating food
- the need for soft foods only
- skull fractures
- sinus damage
- nerve damage in the head or face
- swelling and bruising that can take a month or longer to heal
- damaged or broken teeth
- bleeding and the risk of life-threatening blood clots
- eye damage or loss of eyesight
- hearing issues
- balance problems
- brain damage
- memory loss
- personality changes
- temporary or permanent impairment due to the brain injury
It can also be dangerous to fly on a plane after suffering a concussion, even if it is weeks after the injury. Furthermore, many head injuries that begin as a concussion can progress to more serious brain injuries, particularly if the swelling puts pressure on the brain.
Symptoms:
The three main cognitive symptoms of a concussion in neuroscience are difficulty maintaining a train of thought, distractibility, and difficulty carrying out complex movements to achieve a goal, even for simple tasks such as putting away clothes. However, most people typically notice a visible lump on the head (although not always). Along with this, individuals may experience:
- A severe headache that can last for several days or more
- Nausea
- Dizziness or vertigo
- Balance issues
- Ringing in the ears
- Seeing swimming lights in their vision
- Loss of some senses, such as smell or taste (usually temporary)
- Fatigue
- Unusual thoughts or memories, or difficulty remembering things
- Difficulty focusing
- General confusion
If someone has a concussion, it’s important to prioritize seeking medical attention immediately. While ice or cold packs may help with swelling, it’s crucial to avoid putting pressure on the injury site, as this could worsen any potential fractures. A visit to the emergency room is recommended, as medical professionals can provide safe treatment and perform scans to detect any brain damage or skull fractures. Additional steps will be recommended by the doctor after returning home. It’s also advisable to consult an injury lawyer within a few days to assess if there’s a possibility of receiving compensation.