Long-Term Effects of Concussions

Car accidents can cause serious injuries. In an instant, the impact of a crash could cause you to be thrown around a vehicle. You could hit your knees on the dashboard or suffer whiplash. Some people hit their heads on dashboards, steering wheels, and windows, causing serious injuries such as concussions.

A concussion is a traumatic brain injury that occurs after a person suffers head trauma. Car accidents are one of the most causes of brain injuries, although any blow to the head can lead to a concussion.

A concussion can lead to short-term and long-term injuries. After a concussion, a person may experience headaches, fatigue, nausea, and difficulty concentrating. Long-term effects may include memory problems, behavioral and personality changes, sleep disorders, and more.

A person is more likely to suffer long-term effects if they have:

• Multiple concussions. Each additional concussion can increase the risk of cumulative damage.
• Insufficient recovery time. Returning to activity too soon can exacerbate symptoms and risk.
• Pre-existing conditions. A history of mental health issues or neurological problems can worsen outcomes.

If you have suffered a concussion, here’s a look at some of the long-term effects you should be concerned about.

Cognitive Impairments

Those with concussions often have difficulty with short-term or long-term memory. A person may also have difficulty concentrating and experience struggles with focus and attention. It can also be harder to process and respond to information.

Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy

Repeated head trauma can lead to chronic traumatic encephalopathy, a degenerative brain condition. Symptoms include memory loss, confusion, impaired judgment, aggression, depression, and progressive dementia.

Emotional and Behavioral Changes

A concussion can result in an increased risk of mood disorders such as depression and anxiety. A person may feel more irritable as they feel a heightened sensitivity to frustration and stress. They may also be more impulsive and have a reduced ability to control urges or behavior.

Headaches and Migraines

Persistent or recurrent headaches are common. A person may also experience increased sensitivity to light and sound.

Inner Ear Issues

A person may experience balance issues, including difficulty with coordination. Chronic dizziness and vertigo are also common.

Sleep Disorders

A person may have difficulty falling or staying asleep. Sleep disturbances like insomnia or sleep apnea are also common.

Sensory Processing Issues

A person may experience increased sensitivity to light, sound, or motion. Visual disturbances such as double vision are also common.

There’s Hope

A long-term traumatic brain injury can seem like a scary situation, but it can be managed with early intervention, rest, and rehabilitation: Proper recovery can minimize long-term effects. Lifestyle changes such as regular exercise, cognitive stimulation, and a healthy diet can also be helpful.

Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer

Concussions can seem minor at first, but many develop into major injuries with long-term effects.

These effects can be expensive and cause you to take time off work. Make sure these damages are covered with help from a Houston car accident concussion attorney from The West Law Office, PLLC. See how we can help you recover. Schedule a consultation by calling 281-347-3247 or filling out the online form.

Source:

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