Some injuries are immediately apparent after a car accident, while others are not. Unfortunately, some people do not realize they have suffered a concussion after being involved in a motor vehicle crash, which could leave them without the medical treatment they need to cure their condition and prevent future injuries.
Here is what you should know about delayed concussions if you or a loved one was recently injured in a car accident. This information is valuable if you decide to pursue a San Antonio traumatic brain injury claim.
What Is a Concussion?
A concussion is considered a mild traumatic brain injury. It is typically caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head. It can occur during a car crash when a vehicle occupant hits their head on a hard surface, or even when the head and brain move rapidly back and forth with no external trauma. The sudden movement can damage brain cells and disrupt brain function. Suffering one concussion makes a person more likely to suffer more concussions in the future.
Why Are Concussion Symptoms Sometimes Delayed?
Some symptoms can be immediate, but others might appear later. The brain may try to compensate for the damage caused by the injury, which may mask some symptoms. During this period, secondary injuries such as bleeding and swelling can occur. The victim may not notice these effects immediately, but they can do substantial damage if left untreated.
The victim may begin to feel more profound impacts from the injuries as the brain’s function becomes inhibited. The extent, severity, and location of the brain injury can also affect when symptoms become noticeable.
Some car accident victims don’t experience any symptoms immediately after a concussion. It may take hours, days, or even weeks for some of these symptoms to become apparent.
What Signs Should I Look Out for After Being Involved in a Car Crash?
If you suffered a head injury in a motor vehicle accident, carefully monitor yourself for the following symptoms of a concussion:
- Vomiting or nausea
- Headaches
- Dizziness or trouble balancing
- Blurred vision
- Confusion
- Headaches
- Memory loss
- Sleep disturbances
- Changes in personality
- Difficulty managing emotions
- Problems focusing
- Sensitivity to light or sound
- Difficulty remembering things
- Ringing in the ears
- Irritability or anxiety
- Weakness or numbness
Importance of Seeking Medical Treatment After a Car Crash
Even if your symptoms seem mild after an accident, it’s essential to seek medical care. First, you don’t know what you don’t know. An experienced doctor can conduct a physical, ask questions about your symptoms, and run tests to ensure your injuries are properly diagnosed.
Second, the sooner you seek medical care, the sooner you can begin receiving the treatment you need to heal. Concussions can lead to more serious injuries if they are not promptly diagnosed and treated.
Finally, having your medical records clearly indicate your injuries and their connection to your car accident can help with your personal injury claim in San Antonio.
Contact Us for Legal Advice and Representation
If you or a loved one may have suffered a delayed concussion, reach out to George Salinas Injury Lawyers for immediate legal assistance. We offer free case reviews so you can learn about your legal rights with no cost or obligation. Call us today to get started.