A bump on the head, while playing basketball or being involved in a minor fender bender, do not sound like events that could cause serious injuries. Surprisingly, though, both could leave the person with a type of traumatic brain injury known as a concussion. So before you dismiss an injury as nothing to worry about, you need to make sure you are certain that the person is not suffering from a concussion. If you are not fully informed about concussions, you are not alone. The following are some of the basic questions answered about concussions:
How does a concussion occur?
Your brain is made of a gelatinous like matter and is housed in your skull. The brain is surrounded by fluid which protects it from everyday jostling. A concussion occurs when the head and brain move violently back and forth sending the brain crashing into the skull. Sudden movements, like a blow or knock to the head, can cause damage to the brain cells and even result in chemical changes.
What types of injuries can cause a concussion?
Unfortunately, there are many types of injuries that can result in a concussion. Most of these injuries result from accidents. Car accidents, motorcycle crashes and construction and workplace accidents can all result in a person receiving a blow to the head. Even a slip and fall can cause a person to hit their head hard enough to cause damage. However, accidents alone are not the only causes of concussions. Athletes from sports to soccer to football to hockey are all at risk of developing a concussion from regular practice and play.
What symptoms are common with a concussion?
If your child was hurt in a sports injury or your spouse was in a car accident, it is possible that he or she may be suffering from a concussion. Unlike broken bones, a concussion may not be immediately noticeable after an accident. Symptoms of concussions can include:
- Fatigue
- Headache
- A feeling of pressure in the head
- Momentary loss of consciousness
- Dizziness
- Nausea and vomiting
- Appearing confused or feeling as if in a mental fog
- Slurred speech
- Ringing in the ears
- Inability to recall the accident or traumatic event
- Sensitivity to light
- Problems sleeping
- Depression
- Difficulties concentrating or dealing with noises
- Memory problems
What should you do if you think your loved one has a concussion?
If you think your spouse or child may be suffering from a concussion, the first step is to seek immediate medical attention. It is important to have a healthcare professional make a formal diagnosis. Do not let your child return to a sport or physical activity until he or she has been cleared to do so by his or her physician. While most concussions are mild in nature, it is still important to allow the brain adequate time to heal.
If you or a loved one suffered a concussion as the result of an auto accident or the negligence action of another person, it is important to speak with a skilled Kansas City Injury Attorney as soon as possible. Only an experienced Injury Attorney will be able to determine whether you may be able to hold another person responsible for your injuries. The Kansas City Personal Injury Attorneys at the Hubbard & Kurtz, L.L.P. have helped countless injury victims, in both Kansas and Missouri, obtain compensation. Our compassionate team of attorneys will make it priority to fight for your rights and to hold the wrongdoers accountable. To schedule an initial consultation with one of our Injury Attorneys, contact Hubbard & Kurtz, L.L.P. today at (816) 472-4673. We look forward to helping with your legal needs.