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Is a Concussion a Brain Injury?

Posted on March 28, 2022 in

Every year, thousands of people are hospitalized due to traumatic brain injuries, or any brain damage that occurs as a result of an external force. Brain injuries impact memory, movement, concentration, learning, and many other critical functions. 

Any traumatic brain injury (TBI) can lead to permanent and life-altering impairments, including concussions. A concussion is a common and relatively mild type of TBI, but this injury can be very dangerous. Without prompt medical attention, concussions can result in serious complications. 

What Is a Concussion?

A concussion is a type of brain injury that occurs when you experience a jolt, blow, or bump to the head. This can be caused by a Portland car accident, a slip and fall, or even a work injury. This injury can cause headaches and impact your balance, coordination, memory, and concentration. Other symptoms of a concussion may include the following.

  • Ringing in the ears
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Blurred vision
  • Fatigue and drowsiness
  • Confusion and a feeling of fogginess
  • Amnesia following the accident
  • Temporary loss of consciousness
  • Forgetfulness
  • Slurred speech

If you experience any type of head injury, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Without prompt medical attention, concussions could lead to additional complications, such as post-traumatic headaches, persistent post-concussive symptoms, or second-impact syndrome.

Common Causes of Concussions

A concussion occurs when your brain forcefully hits the sides of your skull, leading to brain damage. This type of brain damage often occurs when you experience a jolt or bump to the head. Rapid acceleration and deceleration or violent shaking may also lead to a concussion.

Many types of accidents can result in a concussion or other type of TBI. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), motor vehicle crashes, physical assaults, falls, and sports injuries are some of the leading causes of brain injuries. 

Concussion Treatment and Recovery

It is possible to heal and recover from a concussion. In the first few days following your diagnosis, it is important to rest your body and your mind. Your doctor will likely recommend limiting activities that require lots of brainpower or vigorous physical activities.

After your period of rest, your doctor will likely recommend that you increase activities at a gradual place. Light exercise can help support your recovery but avoid any activities that could put you at risk of a head injury.

A second concussion can lead to serious complications.  In fact, you should avoid any activities that could expose you to a brain injury until you reach a full recovery. As your symptoms improve, you can begin to return to your normal routine by participating in high-concentration activities. 

It is very common to experience headaches in the first days and weeks after a concussion, which can be very bothersome and painful.

To manage these symptoms, your doctor may prescribe a pain relief medication. Do not take any pain relief medication that your doctor has not approved—serious complications like brain bleeding could occur.

Legal Options After a Concussion

Many people develop concussions due to the actions of another person, like a drunk driver or a landlord who fails to keep a property safe. If you develop a brain injury because of someone else’s negligence, you may be eligible for legal action.

By filing an insurance claim or lawsuit against the at-fault party, you can recover compensation for medical care, lost wages, property damage, and more. Contact a Portland brain injury lawyer as soon as possible after your accident to discuss your next steps.

Contact Our Personal Injury Attorneys in Portland, OR – Tillmann Law Personal Injury Lawyers

If you were injured in an accident in Portland, OR, please contact our Portland personal injury lawyers at Tillmann Law Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a free consultation today.

Tillmann Law Personal Injury Lawyers
101 SW Main St. #1905
Portland, OR, 97204
(503) 773-3333
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