What To Know About Minor Concussions
Concussions are among the most common types of head injuries. Despite how prevalent it is, many people have misconceptions about this condition. Even minor concussions should be treated seriously, as concussions can have ramifications that result in long-term issues that affect a person and their closest loved ones forever. The symptoms of a concussion can present immediately or later on, and may last for months or longer. This is why misconceptions about concussions must be cleared up and people should visit a doctor if they suspect they have even a minor concussion.
Accidents happen all the time, but when someone is injured due to another’s reckless behavior or negligent inaction, then a concussion injury incident may become a personal injury case. Examples of personal injury accidents include slip and falls, car accidents, bicycle accidents, pedestrian accidents, birth injuries, medical malpractice, motorcycle accidents, and more. As a minor concussion lawyer from Yearin Law Office can explain, a person may be entitled to compensation from the person at-fault for their concussion, so they can receive the funds needed for recovery.
Symptoms of a Concussion
There are numerous symptoms associated with a concussion, and can vary depending on the severity. In the first few minutes or hours after a concussion accident, a person may exhibit symptoms such as an intense headache, nausea, vomiting, noise sensitivity, light sensitivity, ringing in the ears, dizziness, head pressure, and temporary loss of consciousness. Other symptoms that warrant urgent medical attention for a concussion include sleep changes, confusion, fatigue, clumsiness, behavior changes, personality changes, slow responsiveness, and memory loss.
A common misconception people have about concussions is that they don’t need to see a doctor if they don’t have the symptoms listed above. A person can still have a concussion that needs medical attention even if there are no noticeable signs. Those who have been in an accident or otherwise hit their head should see a doctor, if only for peace of mind that they are healthy and okay.
What Happens During a Concussion
The brain is essential to our everyday function, and has safety mechanisms to help keep it protected from harm. Cerebrospinal fluid (a clear liquid) and meninges (membranes) surround the brain, offering a supportive cushion when in movement. But when there is a harmful force of impact applied to the head, the brain may get pushed around within the skull. When the brain hits against the inside of the skull, this can cause a concussion. Since different parts of the brain move at different speeds, nerve fibers may get stretched and break. Chemical changes within the brain can happen as well due to being jolted around.
There is so much to know about concussions, and the primary takeaway should be that all concussions must be treated seriously regardless of suspected severity and if symptoms are present or not. As the team at Yearin Law Office knows, this is especially true if someone was just involved in a personal injury accident.