If you have recently gone through a traumatic accident, there is a chance you have a concussion. If you have recently been through a car accident or play contact sports, it is critical that you can identify the signs of a concussion to stay safe. Not knowing the symptoms of a concussion can result in longer healing times or increased chances of worsening the injury.
If you are not feeling like yourself and are struggling to determine if the symptoms you are experiencing are signs of a concussion, having a reliable resource to rely on is crucial. Our team of experts has created a list of signs that you have a concussion so that you can seek adequate care for this head injury.
What Is A Concussion?
A concussion is a traumatic brain injury, ranging from mild to severe, that can impact brain function. You may have a concussion following a blow to the head or an accident that resulted in violent shaking of the head and body.
You may also experience a concussion following a hit in a contact sport, such as football, soccer, or rugby. The hits these players take can be violent enough to cause persistent concussions. With a concussion, your brain either bounces or twists in your head. This movement can create chemical changes in your brain, as well as damage to brain cells.
Signs You Have A Concussion
The signs you have a concussion will vary depending on the severity of your injury. The symptoms may start subtly and may not present immediately after the accident. They may also persist for several weeks following the accident.
If you have a mild concussion, the symptoms may appear immediately following the accident. Symptoms of a mild concussion generally go away after a few weeks of light activity and care. Signs of a mild concussion include the following:
- Changes in your sleep patterns, including less sleep, more sleep, or difficulty sleeping
- Light and sound sensitivity
- Headaches, dizziness, and nausea
- Difficulty concentrating
- Emotional changes, including irritability, anxiety, or nervousness
Moderate to severe concussions can result in much more significant problems for those suffering. Moderate to severe concussions may follow a head injury resulting in temporary loss of consciousness or a coma. Because of the severity of the injury, concussions can result in long-term or life-long health problems. Signs of a moderate to severe concussion include the following:
- Difficulty communicating or understanding others
- Problems with vision and hearing
- Weakness in your limbs
- Extreme changes in emotions, including depression, aggression, or nervousness
- Personality changes, including trouble controlling behaviors
What A Chiropractor Can Do To Help
When you have a concussion, your doctor will likely advise you to take things easy. By that, they often mean no physically strenuous activity or sports and resting when the opportunity presents itself. You should avoid bright lights, watching television, reading, or looking at a computer screen. This rest period gives your head a chance to recover without irritation.
You should also take anti-inflammatory medications, such as ibuprofen, to relieve any headache or nausea you may be experiencing. This medication will also help with any other pain you experience following your accident. If you were in a car accident, you might have back and neck pain in addition to your concussion.
If this is the case, seeing a chiropractor can help you alleviate some of the pain you’re experiencing. There are many treatments a chiropractor may suggest when dealing with neck and back pain, including mobility and decompression treatments, as well as laser and vibration therapies. If you are dealing with any lingering body pain following a concussion, you should consider seeing a chiropractor.
When To Seek Medical Attention
If you have a concussion, it is crucial that you know when to seek immediate medical attention. If you are an adult and have gone home following your initial consultation with your physician and are experiencing increased weakness, vomiting, seizures, or slurred speech, you should call 911 or head to an emergency room immediately. The signs that a child needs to see a medical professional are the same but also include not eating or nursing and being inconsolable.
Treating Your Concussion With Elite Chiropractic
If you have a concussion and are dealing with lingering pain, it can feel like there is nowhere to turn. But our team at Elite Chiropractic is here to help you get back to everyday life. With years of experience, we are confident that we can help you feel more like yourself again. If you are looking for treatment following your concussion or would like to speak with a member of our team, contact us today.
Leave a Reply