You may be surprised to learn that not all brain injuries are obvious, and severe trauma is not required in order to sustain a potentially life-altering brain injury. This article will explain the nature and signs of concussion, and when to seek medical attention.
The Fragile Brain
The human brain is made of soft, squishy tissue similar to the consistency of Jell-O. The brain sits within the skull, which is made of very hard bone. The skull may seem smooth on the outside, but it contains some significant ridges and bumps within the brain cavity. If the soft brain tissue is shaken or moved and comes into contact with the ridges and bumps of the hard skull, a brain injury called a concussion can occur. A concussion does not typically result in structural damage that can be seen on diagnostic imaging like CT scans or MRI’s, but that does not mean injury has not occurred.
Concussions can be caused by even mild forms of trauma, like whiplash from a rear-end car accident, a fall, or even a sports injury.
Signs of Concussion
The symptoms of a concussion can be variable, and they may not always occur immediately following injury. Common symptoms include headaches, dizziness, nausea or vomiting, visual changes, tinnitus or ringing in the ears, a feeling of fogginess, problems with memory and concentration, difficulty making decisions, behavioural changes, depression, anxiety, irritability, aggression, and impulsivity. However, a person suffering from a concussion does not necessarily have all these symptoms.
When to Seek Medical Attention
If you suspect a concussion may have occurred, you should see a health care professional immediately. If the injury arose due to a sports-related incident, you should never return to play or engage in other vigorous activity right away.
Treatment of a concussion often includes rest (both physical and mental) and limiting of activities that tend to make symptoms worse, such as watching television or playing video games, reading, or working. After this rest period, activity is gradually increased as tolerated without triggering symptoms. Always follow the advice of health care professionals when recovering from a concussion.
Oatley Vigmond LLP is Ontario’s Personal Injury Firm. If you are suffering from the symptoms of a concussion caused by someone else’s negligence, contact us for a free consultation.
