A concussion is a serious brain injury that is typically caused by a blow to the head, such as in a motor vehicle or slip-and-fall accident. While some people experience immediate symptoms, others don’t realize something is wrong for several hours or even days.
If you suffer a blow to your head, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Seek immediate medical treatment, as your doctor can run a variety of tests to diagnose your condition and ensure that you’re doing everything you need to keep safe and recover.
If you’re diagnosed with a concussion, your doctor can help you create a treatment plan. Treatment may include the following:
- Rest: There is nothing more important than rest after a concussion. Your doctor will suggest that you rest both your mind and body, as exertion can provoke symptoms and lengthen your recovery period. For example, you shouldn’t partake in sports, lifting heavy objects, watching too much television, or staring at a computer screen or phone for extended periods of time.
- Pain medication: If you’re suffering from headaches, an over-the-counter pain medication can help with the discomfort. Avoid aspirin and ibuprofen as these increase the risk of bleeding in the brain after an injury.
- Shortened work or school days: As you continue to recover, shortened work or school days allow you to slowly progress back to 100 percent. Also, regular breaks are important as these give your brain time to rest.
Questions for your doctor
As you recover, here are some questions to ask your doctor:
- How soon can I expect my symptoms to improve and eventually go away?
- What is the risk of suffering another concussion in the future?
- Are there any long-term complications I should be aware of?
- Is it possible my concussion could complicate other medical problems, such as migraine headaches?
- What should I do if my symptoms don’t improve?
It’s these types of questions that help you better understand your injury, as well as what you can do to recover.
If another person’s negligence caused your concussion, don’t wait to learn more about your legal rights. You may be able to seek compensation for your injuries, medical bills and treatment, and other damages.
