Concussions are one of the most prevalent injuries to impact car accident victims. However, those who suffer concussions may not initially show symptoms. This puts car crash victims at risk for an undiagnosed and untreated concussion. Left untreated, a concussion could lead to lasting brain damage.
At Florida Spine & Injury Institute of Lakeland, we provide reliable chiropractic treatment for car accident victims who have sustained a concussion and can refer to a board certified neurologist. Let’s learn more about the main signs and symptoms of concussion to look out for after an accident.
How Concussions Occur
Concussions are traumatic brain injuries that occur after some type of blow to the head. This may include severe shaking of the head in addition to sudden impact. During this traumatic event, the brain moves sharply around in the skull. The brain may sustain cuts or bruising, thus causing a concussion.
Grades 1, 2, and 3 are used to categorize concussions. Grade 1 concussions are the mildest, and no loss of consciousness occurs. Grade 3 concussions are the most severe, with the patient losing consciousness for over 5 minutes and potential amnesia lasting for over 24 hours. With a Grade 2 concussion, the patient may lose consciousness for under 5 minutes, with amnesia lasting from 30 minutes to 24 hours.
Signs of Concussion
Common physical symptoms of a concussion include:
- Headache
- Blurry vision
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Fatigue
- Ringing in the ears
Some patients may also experience confusion, the sensation of seeing stars, or amnesia relating to the accident. Irritability and mood changes may also occur as the concussion sets in. You may find yourself with feelings of nervousness, aggression, and/or depression. If these feelings are new for you, they can be a sign of concussion after an accident.
Select symptoms of a concussion may not become apparent until days after the accident. These symptoms include:
- Trouble with memory and/or concentration
- Irritability, as discussed above
- Trouble sleeping
- Difficulty with taste and smell
Sometimes, a loved one may need to identify concussion symptoms in the victim of an accident. Symptoms exhibited by a concussed individual that may be clear to witnesses include:
- Slurring while speaking
- Appearing dazed or foggy
- Delayed response when spoken to
- Forgetfulness
- Loss of consciousness for a temporary period
Get Examined After an Accident
Receiving a chiropractic exam after an accident involving impact to the head will protect you against the risk of an undiagnosed concussion. When a concussion is identified and treated as soon after the accident as possible, the recovery period will be more effective. Click here to contact Florida Spine & Injury Institute of Lakeland today to learn more.
