After a car accident, you want to make sure you’re taking care of everything you need to in order to heal and get back on the road. But what if you suffered a concussion as a result of the accident? Learn how to spot concussion symptoms after a car accident, and what you can do to recover from a potential injury.
Concussion Symptoms After a Car Accident
Did you know that motor vehicle crashes are one of the leading causes of traumatic brain injury (TBI) hospitalizations and deaths? Sometimes it’s easy to spot an injury after a car accident, but many injuries aren’t obvious if you don’t know what you’re looking for. How can you spot concussion symptoms after a car accident?
What Kinds of Car Accidents Give People Concussions?
You’ve probably heard that a concussion is caused by a blow to the head, which can injure the brain as a result. However, the science of concussions is a little more complicated than that. A concussion is a type of TBI that occurs when your brain is suddenly and traumatically moved inside of your skull, which causes your neurons to be stretched and damaged as a result. Getting hit in the head can cause a concussion, but an impact does not necessarily need to occur.
Once you understand how concussions work, it’s easy to see how a car accident could give you one. While a car accident will usually stop your car from moving, your body will continue to move forward at the same speed your car was going until it encounters an obstacle. Hopefully, that obstacle will be safety equipment, like a seatbelt or an airbag. But either way, this can lead to your head either striking an object or being moved violently as it comes to a sudden stop. As a result, your brain may hit the walls of your skull, causing a concussion.
The truth is that every car accident can potentially lead to a concussion. The type and severity of the injury depend on several factors, including how your car is impacted and at what speed.
Do I Have a Car Accident-Related Concussion?
Unfortunately, concussions are just one of many injuries you can suffer as a result of a car crash. If you have a concussion, or suspect you have one, it is vital to seek medical attention right away. If you experience any of these concussion symptoms after a car accident, be sure to discuss them with a medical professional:
- Repeated headaches, dizziness, and nausea
- New light or noise sensitivities
- Drowsiness or drastic changes in sleeping patterns
- Slurred speech
- Unusual pupil dilation
- Difficulty concentrating or “brain fog”
- Difficulty remembering things or retaining new information
- Irritability, anxiety, or depression
It’s also important to remember that concussion symptoms don’t always show up right away. Even if your car accident was a few days or weeks ago, you could still be experiencing a concussion. Most concussions resolve themselves in a few weeks, but some can cause issues that linger for months. The best way to make sure you recover is to schedule an evaluation with a medical professional and follow their expert advice.
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Are you concerned that you might be experiencing concussion symptoms after a car accident? We’re here to help. Consult our concussion clinic for a free evaluation, and let us help you get back on the road where you belong.
Contact National Dizzy and Balance Center. We specialize in diagnosing and treating vestibular disorders, including concussions. Our talented team members can evaluate the extent of your concussion and design a personalized plan to relieve your symptoms. To learn more about our approach to concussion management, please contact us online or by phone. Or if you’re ready to get started, schedule your free medical consultation today.
