Every year, there are an estimated 3.8 million sports and recreation-related concussions in the United States. Millions more occur as a result of falls and car crashes, which, together with sports injuries, make up the top causes of concussions each year. Most concussions are mild, but all concussions are classified as traumatic brain injuries (TBI)and need to be taken seriously.
Concussions can be caused by any kind of blow to the head or even a blow to or jolting of the body that shakes the head – and the brain – around violently, such as in a car crash. While most concussions are classified as mild and are not life-threatening, the long-term effects of a concussion can be significant, especially if untreated.
If You Think You Have A Concussion, Get It Treated
Concussions affect brain function – even mild concussions impair your brain’s operation. This impairment is generally a temporary issue, and it is possible that your main symptom is “just” a persistent headache. However, it frequently is the case that brain scans will appear normal immediately after a mild concussion, which often results in no medical treatment being given at the time of the injury or in the emergency room afterward.
A concussion is termed “mild,” though, so long as you don’t lose consciousness or do so for less than 30 minutes. That can lead doctors to overlook a concussion. A mild brain injury, including a concussion, remains serious business, however. Even for a mild concussion, symptoms that can develop even days afterward can include:
- Headaches
- Loss of memory, particularly regarding the event that caused the concussion
- Mental confusion
- Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
- Nausea or vomiting
- Fatigue
- Blurred vision
- Dizziness
- Inability to concentrate or focus on complicated issues
These symptoms might not show up immediately and might not last long. That doesn’t mean your brain has healed though. These symptoms can last for days or weeks, even for a “mild” concussion, without proper treatment. If you suffer a blow to the head, you should see a doctor within the next day or two, especially if you are suffering from even one of these symptoms.
If You Have Suffered a Concussion, Contact Our Fargo Personal Injury Lawyers for Assistance
If you have suffered a concussion in the North Dakota or Minnesota, whether in a slip and fall, a car crash, or in a sports or recreational setting, that you believe could be the result of the negligence of another person, as soon as you get medical treatment, you should explore your options for recovering damages. Talk to the personal injury legal team of O’Keeffe O’Brien Lyson Attorneys as soon as possible.
Our lawyers can evaluate your rights and recover the compensation you deserve for your injuries. To set up a free consultation, contact one of the firm’s experienced personal injury attorneys, Tim O’Keeffe, Tatum O’Brien, or Sara Monson, by email today or call the firm at 701-235-8000 or toll-free at 877-235-8002.
