8 Common Signs your Car Accident Gave you a Concussion
Even the slightest trauma or jolt of the head can result in a concussion. Because a vehicle collision can often cause motorists to hit their heads or suffer a sharp jolt of the body, car accident victims regularly suffer concussions. Concussions are often known as a “silent” injury, since the symptoms can be difficult to identify. For this reason, far too many people fail to obtain the medical treatment they need. This can lead to long-lasting struggles and potentially devastating complications. The following are eight common signs that your car accident gave you a concussion.
1. You were unconscious. One of the clearest signs of a concussion is the loss of consciousness, no matter how brief. Even if you only lost consciousness for a few seconds, it is a sign that you suffered a concussion or more severe trauma to the brain.
2. You are disoriented. Concussions often cause victims to feel “out of it” or disoriented for minutes or hours following the injury. Because a car accident can be traumatic and disconcerting in itself, many people mistake their disorientation as shock or trauma from the crash when, in reality, it was a sign of a concussion.
3. You are dizzy and/or nauseous. A concussion can result in dizziness, nausea, or even vomiting. If you feel light-headed or have stomach issues following an accident, see a doctor or go to the emergency room right away.
4. You have sensory issues. While you may think that “seeing stars” or having ringing in your ears is only for cartoon characters, such sensory issues are common symptoms of a concussion.
5. You are confused or have memory problems. Do you remember the impact or hitting your head? After the crash, do you struggle to recall important dates or details that you should know? Do you lose concentration and experience confusion about your usual routine? Never ignore these signs, as they might signal a concussion.
6. You have abnormal sleep patterns. Concussions often cause a disruption in your usual sleep routine. This can mean feeling fatigued and sleeping more than you usually would or experiencing difficulty falling or staying asleep. If your sleep patterns noticeably change, ask your doctor about a possible brain injury.
7. You have headaches. If you have a headache after a collision that persists relentlessly, gets progressively worse, or that causes your vision to blur, you should go to the emergency room as soon as possible.
8. You experience mood swings. Concussions can affect your ability to control your emotions, so they can often result in outbursts, feelings of depression, anxiety, restlessness, and more. If you have unusual mood swings or changes, it is often the sign of a potential concussion.
You should never ignore anything out of the ordinary after a car accident, as the signs of a concussion can vary significantly from person to person. Always seek a medical evaluation and then, contact an experienced Tustin car accident lawyer who can advise you of your rights as a car accident victim.