By: Randy Appleton
One of the most common types of accident injury is a concussion. A concussion is the result of the brain being jolted inside of the skull when there is some type of impact or direct hit to the head. Many people who have received what they perceive as a minor head injury in an accident do not always realize how dangerous a concussion can be. Although a concussion is medically considered the least serious type of brain injury, the truth is that a concussion can result in serious symptoms which should be addressed immediately.
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- There Is No Such Thing as a Mild Concussion
When the Injury Occurs
Another misconception that many people have regarding concussion is that there is always some type of lapse of consciousness, even if just for a few seconds. Although a concussion victim is often knocked out by the impact or blow, this usually only happens in the most serious type, a grade 3 concussion. In fact, there are many victims who do not even realize they have a concussion because symptoms are delayed for several hours or even several days. If you or a loved one receives a blow or impact to the head, it is critical to watch for any of the following symptoms:
- Balance issues
- Concentration and memory difficulties
- Confusion
- Difficulty speaking
- Dizziness
- Enhanced sensitivity
- Feeling dazed
- Headache
- Nausea and vomiting
- Ringing in the ears
- Sensitivity to light
- Sensitivity to noise
- Sluggishness or marked drowsiness
- Slurred speech
- Uncharacteristic clumsiness
- Unusual behavior or personality changes
Treatment of Concussions
Grade 1 and Grade 2 concussions are usually treated with rest and recovery until the symptoms go away. Grade 3 concussions are more serious and usually require more aggressive medical treatments. Typically, the victim will undergo coordination and reflex tests, CT scans, or MRIs in order to determine whether there is a more serious injury or internal bleeding.
All concussion victims need to watch for future concussion risks because of the cumulative effects these injuries can have on the brain. Victims who suffer repeated concussions – such as athletes – can suffer from swelling of the brain, disabilities, permanent brain damage, and even death.
