WHAT IS A CONCUSSION AND WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS?

When people think of brain injuries, they might automatically think of horrible injuries that cause very serious medical issues. While that is the case for many severe brain injuries, other brain injuries aren't quite as severe. A concussion is one type of injury that is considered a mild traumatic brain injury.

What is a concussion?

A concussion is a brain injury that can change the way that your brain functions. While the effects are usually temporary, they can be life-altering. The symptoms of a concussion can last longer than weeks in some cases. Many symptoms might not be noticeable right away, but they might eventually become more noticeable over a few days or weeks after the accident.

What are the symptoms of a concussion?

A concussion can cause fatigue, nausea, a temporary loss of consciousness, a feeling of pressure in your head, a headache, dizziness, vomiting, speech difficulties, or ringing in the ears. Other symptoms, such as amnesia or confusion, might also occur. Some people might experience difficulty sleeping, sensitivity to light, or personality changes that can affect life in a serious way.

Should I seek medical care for a concussion?

Anyone who has suffered a hit to the head should seek medical care. Mayo Clinic recommends seeking care in one to two days after the accident if emergency medical care isn't necessary for the injury.

If the accident that led to the brain injury is one that was caused by the negligence of another person, you might choose to seek compensation for the injury. Learning how to do so in Arizona can help you to plan your case and your steps.

Source: Mayo Clinic, "Concussion," accessed Dec. 31, 2015