Recognizing a concussion following a car accident

Car accidents can cause a number of bodily injuries. While broken bones or bleeding are signs of physical trauma, some injuries occur where the symptoms are more subtle.

A blow to the head can have dangerous consequences, but few people recognize the signs of a concussion.

Definition of a concussion

Rapid movement of the head and brain back and forth is common in car accidents, particularly rear-end collisions. Any jolt, bump or blow to the head could result in the brain getting squeezed against the skull. The sudden movement could bounce or twist the brain within the protection of the skull, damaging or altering brain cells in the process.

A medical provider could label a concussion as mild, but this is still an injury to take seriously. Although the injury is not life-threatening, the side effects of the injury are a cause for concern.

Signs of a concussion

Symptoms of a concussion typically show up shortly after the injury occurred. The injured individual may report particular symptoms, but there are observable conditions as well. The injured person might report pressure in their head or a severe headache, as well as extreme sensitivity to light or noise. They could also claim to feel foggy or hazy. They may experience blurred vision, dizziness or nausea and vomiting.

If you know someone who received a blow to the head, watch for changes in their behavior or movements. They may lose consciousness, move clumsily, appear dazed or experience a lack of memory about the events surrounding the accident.

A concussion is an injury to take seriously. Look for changes in an individual’s behavior and seek medical care right away.