What Are the Signs of a Concussion After an Accident?

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What Are the Signs of a Concussion After an Accident?

A concussion is a Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) caused by a violent blow to the head or severe shaking of the head and upper body. The two most significant causes of concussions are slipping and falling and car accidents, but a concussion can happen almost anywhere.

You may get a concussion from an accident that isn’t your fault, such as from an improperly cleared sidewalk, a car accident when someone else loses control of their vehicle, or an accident at work. If you suffer a concussion due to another’s negligence, speak with the Syracuse Injury Lawyers at Catalano Law to help you protect your rights and seek the compensation you deserve.

Common Signs and Symptoms of Concussion

Physical signs and symptoms of a concussion can include any of the following:

  • Headache
  • Ringing in your Ears
  • Feeling nauseous
  • Vomiting
  • Experiencing fatigue or drowsiness
  • Blurred vision
  • Confusion or feeling foggy
  • Dizziness

Because the signs and symptoms of a concussion are similar to other injuries, diagnosing a concussion can be difficult without visiting a doctor first. Listen to your friends and family if they tell you ‌you’ve been acting differently after a head injury and seek medical attention.

Differences Between a Mild, Moderate, and Severe Concussion

The symptoms of a concussion can range from mild to severe, according to a grading system used by doctors. These grades include:

Grade 1: Mild Concussion

With a mild concussion, you may experience headaches and an inability to focus. It lasts less than 15 minutes and doesn’t involve a loss of consciousness. However, it can leave you dazed for less than a minute.

Although these types of concussions are easy to dismiss and don’t require time off from work, you must visit a doctor as soon as possible after your accident. They can perform a physical examination and have you undergo digital imaging tests to see if you have a concussion. 

Grade 2: Moderate Concussion

The symptoms of a mild concussion may overlap with a moderate concussion, but some signs of a moderate concussion are more serious. Several symptoms are associated with a moderate concussion, including dizziness, temporary memory loss, confusion, ringing in the ears, and irritability. Dazedness can last much longer in people with moderate concussions.

If you suffer from a moderate concussion, your doctor may need to observe you for 24 hours. They may also recommend that you refrain from work and sports for 24 to 48 hours.

Grade 3: Severe Concussion

A severe concussion is when you lose consciousness for less than a minute. It can cause worsening symptoms, such as frequent headaches, slurred speech, and reduced motor skills. If you or a loved one has these symptoms, you must get immediate medical attention.

With severe concussions, the recovery time may be longer, such as a 2 to 4-week period where sports are prohibited, and you gradually return to playing sports. The records from your visit can prove your injuries and form the basis for a strong insurance claim and further negotiations with the insurance company.

What are the Long-Term Complications of Concussion?

Concussions are dangerous, and their effects can be cumulative and long-lasting. After a concussion, some people may suffer post-concussion syndrome with these symptoms:

  • Memory and concentration issues
  • Mood swings
  • Headaches
  • Fatigue
  • Extended period of drowsiness
  • Dizziness
  • Insomnia

Once you have a concussion, you are at a higher risk of having another one later. Second-impact syndrome can often result in fatal or acute brain swelling if you haven’t fully recovered from the initial concussion. The impact can cause vascular congestion and increased pressure caused by fluids in the brain and skull. It is possible to experience these symptoms rapidly, which may be difficult to control.

Do I Need to Hire a Lawyer After I Get a Concussion?

If you have suffered a concussion due to another person’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation. A personal injury lawyer from Catalano Law can examine your medical records and consult with concussion experts to help you establish your case regarding a hard-to-prove concussion. These records are vital to show the extent of your injuries and the treatment plan from your doctor, including hospital stays, rehabilitation, and prescription costs.

The fact that you lost income during the recovery process and hospital stays may allow you to recover compensation for your economic losses.

Schedule Your Free Consultation

While concussions can vary in severity, all concussions are considered traumatic brain injuries and should be taken seriously. Protect your rights to a fair settlement after a concussion or TBI with experienced legal representation from Catalano Law. We’ll help you receive monetary compensation to help you pay for your medical expenses and rebuild your life.

Contact Catalano Law today to schedule your free, confidential consultation