Concussions

The careless actions of others can cause people to suffer from concussions. Motor vehicle accidents, construction site falls, and falls caused by slippery substances at grocery stores are among the types of accidents that can cause this serious brain injury.

A concussion can be easily missed or ignored because the injured person may look fine. However, concussions can cause lifelong problems if not properly treated, affecting your family and your ability to work. Treatment may cost thousands of dollars

If you have suffered a concussion because of another person’s carelessness, the legal system can offer you protection.

Attorney Bruce A. Blaylock can help you assess your legal rights if you have suffered a concussion in an accident. He can also help you get the proper medical care and treatment you need.

Contact the Blaylock Law Office today at  301-951-1800 to discuss your potential personal injury claim. Your initial consultation is always free.

What is a Concussion?

A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury caused by a bump, blow or jolt to the head. It can also result from a fall or blow to the body that causes the head and brain to move quickly back and forth. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), concussions account for about 75 percent of traumatic brain injuries in the U.S.

Concussions can cause four types of injuries:

  • Cognitive: memory, concentration, clear thinking
  • Physical: headaches, blurred vision, dizziness, sensitivity to noise or light, lethargy, maintaining balance
  • Emotional: irritability, depression, anxiety, emotional outbursts, moodiness
  • Sleep: trouble falling asleep, getting substantially more or less sleep than usual

Individuals who suffer a concussion may temporarily lose consciousness, lose memory of events just prior to and after a concussion, or feel dazed or confused. Concussion symptoms can linger for a short period of time, or can last for weeks or months. The symptoms may appear immediately, while others may not be noticed for days or months after sustaining the injury.

‘I just don’t feel like myself’

Concussions are often a “silent” injury. People who have suffered a concussion can look fine, but they may experience sudden, dramatic mood swings, or experience emotional outbursts when prior to the injury they were typically calm and even natured. They might feel depressed, anxious or nervous. Or they might have trouble concentrating or thinking through problems.

Most people recover fully after a concussion, although how quickly will depend on the severity of the concussion, their age, their health before the concussion, and how well they take care of themselves after the injury.

For example, someone who suffered from chronic headaches prior to a concussion may take longer to recover. Or if someone pushes themselves too fast or ignores symptoms and tries to “tough it out” may worsen the symptoms and lengthen the recovery period. Someone who has had prior concussions may suffer from more severe symptoms and face a longer road to recovery.

According to the Center for Disease Control, young children (0-4), teenagers (15-19), and adults over 65 are typically the most susceptible to concussions, and can take longer to recover.

How is a Concussion Treated?

If you think you have suffered a concussion, getting medical help soon after the injury may reduce symptoms and speed recovery. A doctor can assess whether you have suffered a concussion by taking a CT scan, or by conducting a neuropsychological exam to assess your learning or memory skills, ability to concentrate, and the speed of your problem-solving skills.

Rest is usually the most effective treatment for a concussion. Your doctor may want you to limit every day activities (e.g., driving a car, working full days, doing household chores) to help your brain heal. Seeing a doctor can help you explain to your employer the nature of your concussion injury, and the potential need for a reduced work schedule. Avoiding sustained computer use during the early recovery period is also recommended.