Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) can occur in many different types of accidents in the Santa Fe area, and they can range widely in severity. Concussions are a form of mild traumatic brain injury that frequently occur in motor vehicle collisions, falls, and sports-related injuries. Children and adults can also suffer concussions as a result of intentional acts of violence. When another party may be liable for a concussion, it is important to learn more about filing a personal injury claim. In order to file a personal injury claim, you will need to have medical documentation to support your case, which means you will need to seek help from a health care provider if signs or symptoms of a concussion appear.
The signs and symptoms of a concussion can vary between adults and children, and it is important to know when to see a doctor. The following are signs of concussions you should take seriously.
Concussions in Adults
Concussions in adults can produce a range of symptoms. According to the Mayo Clinic, people who experience concussions may report signs or symptoms such as:
- Headache;
- Ringing in the ears;
- Nausea;
- Vomiting;
- Fatigue;
- Blurred vision;
- Feeling “foggy”;
- Amnesia; and/or
- Dizziness.
Not all of the symptoms above will necessarily be present when a person suffers a concussion. After a blow or jolt to the head, the above symptoms should always be assessed by a health care provider. In addition to the symptoms experienced by the person who has suffered the concussion, other around that person might observe one or more of the following signs, according to the Mayo Clinic:
- Slurred speech;
- Delayed response time;
- Dazed appearance;
- Forgetfulness; and/or
- Temporary loss of consciousness.
Concussions in Children
Concussions in children can produce some of the same symptoms as those that often appear in adults, but kids can also show other signs or symptoms after a concussion. As the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) underscores, anytime a child or teen suffers a bump or blow to the head or to their body and later says that they “don’t feel right,” no matter what the symptoms might be, it is critical to ensure that your child sees a doctor. In addition, kids will often have one or more of the following symptoms:
- Headache;
- Head pressure;
- Nausea;
- Vomiting;
- Dizziness;
- Balance issues;
- Light or noise sensitivity;
- Sluggishness;
- Confusion; and/or
- Concentration problems.
It is also important to know that very young children, including infants and toddlers, may show different signs of a concussion, including excessive crying, sleep problems, and general changes in behavior. In short, whenever a child has sustained a blow or jolt or bump to the head, and any signs or symptoms are present, it is essential to seek a medical evaluation.
Contact an Experienced Santa Fe Personal Injury Attorney
If you or your child suffered a concussion and another person may be at fault, you should seek advice from an experienced Santa Fe personal injury attorney about filing a claim for financial compensation. Our firm can speak with you today and provide you with more information about personal injury lawsuits arising out of concussions. Contact Slate Stern Law for more information.