Injuries after a car accident may not always be seen with a naked eye – especially concussions. A type of traumatic brain injury, a concussion occurs when a blow or jolt to the head causes the head and brain to move back and forth rapidly.
It is important to know the signs of a concussion following a car accident, especially if medical attention is needed. Here are the top five signs of a concussion:
1. Head is spinning
- Following a car accident, if you feel dizzy, nauseous, sensitive to light, or begin vomiting, a concussion may be the cause.
2. Can’t sleep
- Not being able to sleep, especially if you were sleeping well before the accident, could also be a sign of a concussion. Insomnia is a potential symptom, as well as sleeping more than usual.
3. Headaches
- Don’t overlook one of the most common signs, a headache. This one is quite obvious, but it could happen right after the accident, later that day, or even the following day.
4. Irritation
- If you’re feeling irritable, experience unusual mood changes, aggressiveness, or even nervousness – those also could be signs of a concussion.
5. Ringing
- If your ears are ringing, also known as tinnitus, that could mean you suffered a blow to the head. Ringing, buzzing or hissing noises in your ears can be there immediately following the accident, or they may come and go.
Seeking medical attention following a car accident is important if you are injured, even if the symptoms don’t occur right away. It is perfectly okay to visit the hospital a few days after an accident. It’s common for people to deny medical attention, especially if the injury is not outwardly visible, but going to the hospital (or doctor’s office) will make it clear that you are concerned about your injuries.
Contact Kaiman & Crahan today at 502-771-0741 if you’ve been injured in a car accident.