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What are the Danger Signs of a Concussion?

BIKLaw Medical Malpractice Lawyer > Personal Injury > What are the Danger Signs of a Concussion?

Whenever the head receives a sharp blow or jolt, or suffers from a penetrating head injury, there is a risk that a traumatic brain injury may result. In the wake of an accident or a fall, victims may feel dazed and disoriented and if an injury to the head has been sustained as a result of the fall or accident, there is a chance that a traumatic brain injury has occurred. Concussions are one of the most common types of traumatic brain injury.
 
The risks involved are very real. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), traumatic brain injury is a major cause of both death and disability in the United States, associated with about 30 percent of all deaths from injury and diagnosed in over 280,000 hospitalizations and 2.2 million emergency department visits.
 
When, then, should immediate medical attention be sought for a concussion? The CDC advises adults to seek medical care right away if any of the following danger signs arise after they have sustained a bump, blow or jolt to the head: a headache that worsens and does not go away; weakness, numbness or a decrease in coordination; repeated vomiting or nausea; or slurred speech.
 
Children who have sustained a bump, blow or jolt to the head should be taken to emergency care immediately if they have any of the following danger signs: any of the danger signs mentioned above for adults; they can’t be consoled and will not stop crying; or they refuse to nurse or eat.
 
If you are looking after someone who has received a bump, blow or jolt to the head, you should take them to the emergency department if any of the following danger signs occur:
 

  • You’re unable to wake them up or they appear very drowsy.
  • They have one pupil that is larger than the other.
  • They are experiencing seizures or convulsions.
  • They are unable to recognize people or places.
  • They exhibit unusual behavior.
  • They become more and more agitated, confused, or restless.
  • They lose consciousness, even if only briefly.

 
Danger signs associated with a traumatic brain injury such as a concussion need to be taken seriously; emergency care should be sought immediately if any of the danger signs are observed.
 

Traumatic brain injuries can be caused by a number of events, including falls and car accidents. If you or a loved one has suffered a brain injury as a result of an accident or another’s negligent act, we are here to help you obtain the compensation to which you are entitled. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation.

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