When you are involved in an accident that causes injuries, making a trip to the ER is your first stop, especially if you have a head injury. While you might be sent on your way with no reports of serious injuries, what happens if you experience lingering symptoms, such as a headache that won’t go away? Following up with a neurosurgeon is crucial in order to make sure you do not have a more serious injury that went undetected.
Brain Injuries
Accidents can result in different types of brain injuries. In some cases, these injuries can end up causing long-term health issues that affect your quality of life. Early detection of these injuries helps ensure that you get the medical treatment you need to lower your risk of developing more extensive damage or serious complications. Brain injuries that can occur when you are in an accident include concussions, diffuse axonal injuries, contusions, penetrating injuries and open head injuries. Concussions, which occur when your brain hits the sides of your skull, are the most common type of brain injury. They can also be the most difficult type to diagnose in the ER, since symptoms do not always show up right away.
Concussion symptoms can gradually begin to appear days or weeks after your accident. You might start experiencing chronic headaches or suffer cognitive problems, such as memory loss, difficulty communicating or trouble concentrating. Concussions can also affect your mood and lead to depression or irritability. These brain injuries are sometimes overlooked in the ER when patients do not lose consciousness or when the initial symptoms are not present at that time.
Neurological Exams
Seeing a neurologist for a follow-up appointment can help you find out what is causing your symptoms. A neurologist can perform an exam and take imaging tests in order to determine if you have a concussion or other brain injury and how severe it is. You can then discuss treatment options to manage your condition and lower your risk of complications.
Keep in mind that you should also consider seeking help from a concussion lawyer to ensure that you receive the medical care you need for concussions and other brain injuries. If someone else is responsible for your injury, you might be able to get help covering the cost of medical care, including your neurology appointments and tests. A concussion lawyer can help determine who was at fault and let you know what kind of compensation you are entitled to.
If you have been injured in an accident and have a brain injury as a result, please contact the Bonneau Law Firm at (972) 325-1100. We will provide you with a free consultation so you can discuss the details of your accident and resulting injuries.