DO YOU KNOW HOW A CONCUSSION IS DIAGNOSED?

If you have any reason to believe you have suffered a concussion, such as after hitting your head in a motor vehicle accident, it's important to receive an immediate medical diagnosis.
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You may come to find that you did not receive a concussion, but are instead suffering from some other type of medical injury.

While no two people are the same, there are several steps that your medical team will take to determine if you have suffered a concussion. Here are some things to expect:

• Neurological examination. Your doctor will test things such as: reflexes, coordination, balance, strength, hearing and vision.
• Cognitive testing. It's not uncommon for your cognitive skills to be tested, including but not always limited to: ability to recall information, concentration and memory.
• Imaging tests. Brain imaging often comes into play if you are suffering from serious symptoms, such as seizures, vomiting and headaches. A CT scan, X-ray and/or MRI may be ordered.
• Observation. Even if you feel well enough to return home, your doctor may want to observe you overnight. In this case, somebody will check on you for a period of 24 hours to ensure that your symptoms don't worsen.

These are some of the many steps that are taken if you believe you have a concussion.

If your injury was caused by the negligence of another party, such as a reckless driver, you may want to learn more about your legal rights once you receive the necessary treatment. This may help you receive compensation that can be used to pay for medical bills, treatment, and other expenses.

Source: Mayo Clinic, "Diagnosis," accessed July 05, 2017