Although a concussion is often referred to as a minor injury, it can often have serious and far-reaching implications for victims. The tendency to shrug off a concussion leaves people vulnerable to potentially harmful long-term effects. It is crucial to seek medical attention right away if you have suffered a concussion. Physicians often say that a minor brain injury simply does not exist.
Concussions are a prevalent injury across multiple activities—some of the most common include driving, working, or playing sports. In sports-related injuries, players can often depend on coaches or an onsite medical team to recognize the symptoms of a concussion. This may not be so in other contexts where experience or medical support is lacking.
Symptoms of a Concussion
In the event of a concussion, it is important to be aware of symptoms so that you or your loved one are able to seek immediate medical attention. Common concussion symptoms include:
- Loss of consciousness
- Headache
- Anxiety
- Confusion
- Balance problems
- Blurry vision
- Nausea and vomiting
- Depression
- Difficulty concentrating
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Light sensitivity
- Memory loss
- Mood swings
- Sleep issues
Not all, if any, concussion symptoms may appear right away. After a few weeks, you or your loved one may notice changes in physical or mental behavior which signal a health complication. If you experience a violent jolt to the head, you should immediately seek medical attention whether you have symptoms or not.
Long-Term Concussion Symptoms
Some concussions may require ongoing treatment for long-term symptoms. These include:
- Post-concussion syndrome
Post-concussion syndrome is usually diagnosed when symptoms last longer than 10 days after the concussion.
- Post-traumatic symptoms
Post-traumatic symptoms include headaches, vertigo, or other symptoms that last days or weeks after a concussion.
- Second-impact syndrome
Second-impact syndrome occurs when a victim suffers a second concussion before the first has healed. This can lead to swelling in the brain, which can be extremely serious and potentially fatal.
- Cumulative trauma
Occurs when a victim suffers multiple concussions throughout their lifetime leading to potential loss of brain cells or death.
Can I Seek Compensation for My Concussion?
You may incur many expenses as the result of a concussion, including expensive medical bills or missed shifts at work. If your concussion was the result of someone else’s negligence, you may be able to seek damages, including compensatory damages and punitive damages. Compensatory damages are intended to compensate you for the loss sustained from your injury. Punitive damages are reflective of punishment to the at-fault party. You may be able to seek compensation for:
- Medical expenses
- Lost income for missed wages and future wages
- Non-monetary consequences of your injury
- Physical pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Punishment to the wrongdoer
Get in Contact with Wingate, Russotti, Shapiro, Moses & Halperin, LLP Today
You should not have to bear the costs of a concussion from a personal injury accident alone. At Wingate, Russotti, Shapiro, Moses & Halperin LLP, we are here to help you every step of the way in establishing a claim against your wrong-doer. We understand the hardship you or your loved one may endure and are committed to investing in your case. Visit our website today or call us at (212) 986-7353 for a free consultation.