Motor vehicle accidents can cause serious injuries, including concussions. A concussion is a brain injury that causes temporary loss of some functions. It usually occurs due to an impact, but sudden changes in motion can also result in a concussion.
There are a lot of misconceptions about concussions, and misunderstanding may cause you to not seek medical help when you have a serious condition.
Signs of a concussion
Concussions symptoms include vomiting, nausea and ringing in your ears. You might also experience a bad headache, drowsiness, and blurry vision. If you left the accident without any medical attention, the concussion is left untreated. You may experience non-physical symptoms. Non-physical signs to look for include memory issues, noise sensitivity, taste or smell disorders, depression, or personality changes.
Physical symptoms appear soon after the concussion, but the non-physical symptoms take longer to appear and will usually worsen the longer the concussion is left untreated. Concussions can lead to other serious issues. Seek medical care if you suspect you have a concussion.
What to do after getting a concussion
See a medical professional and follow their instructions regarding your concussion diagnosis. Do not participate in sports or activities where you can get an injury. Monitor your symptoms as time progresses. Watch for any changes in pain or headache frequency. Rest your brain and your body. Screens like television and your phone might cause pain, so avoid bright screens. Spend time with friends or family to pass time, but make sure you get a good night’s sleep.
Concussions are more than just a benign headache, so watch your symptoms after an accident and follow your doctor’s orders after getting an evaluation.