There is a growing epidemic of
concussions caused by contact sports among young athletes, as well as among adult athletes who participate in such sports as football, hockey, and other sports as well. When concussions are left undetected, long-term brain damage can result.
According to the CDC, the number of reported concussions has more than doubled over the past ten years. It is unclear whether this is due to more actual concussions, or an improved ability to identify the symptoms of concussions, due to more information regarding concussions. If you or a loved one is experiencing concussion symptoms after an accident, it’s important to contact our Northglenn concussion lawyers for experienced help right away.
While a first concussion can definitely cause problems, a second, third or subsequent hit to the head can result in permanent, long-term damage to the brain. Among school-age children, high school football is responsible for almost half of all reported sports concussions, with about a third of those occurring during practice. Following high school football, ice hockey and soccer bring the biggest risk of concussion.
Will a Concussion Resolve on Its Own?
If a concussion is mild, it will typically resolve itself within a few weeks—the stretched membranes will return to their normal size, and cognitive processes will resume as before the concussion. If the concussion is more serious, or if it is not the patient’s first concussion, there may be more difficulties. The recovery time can lengthen from three weeks (for a minor concussion) to seven weeks or longer. It is important that anyone who takes a hit or jolt to the head undergo a full neurological exam to ensure there are no lasting issues from the injury. While a single, minor concussion is unlikely to cause permanent damage to the brain, some of the effects of the concussion can last for weeks, or even months.
Concussion Symptoms
A person who suffers a concussion could suffer a brief loss of awareness or brain functioning immediately after a head injury from a blow, jolt, or fall. Many people can have a concussion, without even realizing it, while others can suffer significant problems from the concussion. Confusion and amnesia are the most common symptoms of a concussion, with other symptoms including:
- Lack of balance;
- Dizziness;
- Loss of smell or taste;
- Vomiting;
- Nausea;
- Chronic headaches;
- Slurred speech;
- Vision disturbances;
- Ringing in the ears;
- Depression and/or anxiety;
- Insomnia;
- Unusual fatigue;
- Irritability;
- Difficulty concentrating, and
- Sensitivity to light and noise.
Contact Our Northglenn Concussion Attorneys
If you or someone you love has sustained a brain injury in an accident, it is important to understand your legal rights, as well as the long-term complications of your injury.At Hull & Zimmerman, P.C., our committed Northglenn concussion lawyers are dedicated to the belief that everyone deserves justice.
Contact us today.
