Does a Concussion Require Medical Treatment?

by | Feb 14, 2018 | Motor Vehicle Accidents

A concussion is a kind of mild traumatic brain injury, or mTBI, and is typically the result of a blow to the head. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, most people recover from mTBIs within a matter of days; however, for some individuals, the symptoms can last for weeks—or even longer.

Brain injury and neurological disorder represented by a human head and mind broken in peices to symbolize a severe medical mental trauma and cognitive illness on white background.

Those who are most likely to experience a slower recovery period include young children, teens, and seniors. Although there is no specific treatment for speeding up the brain’s natural healing process, accident victims can facilitate recovery by following their doctor’s instructions.

If you sustained an mTBI in a collision that was not your fault, the costs that you incur while recovering can add up quickly. Fortunately, you can hold the liable party financially accountable for all the damages.

To determine if you have grounds for a claim, turn to The Downs Law Firm. After evaluating your case, Ross Downs can gather evidence, interview witnesses, calculate damages, and negotiate with the opposing party on your behalf. Call 318-284-8551 to schedule a free consultation with a personal injury attorney in Shreveport.

Does a Concussion Require Medical Treatment?

There is no specific treatment modality for healing the brain following a concussion; however, individuals who have sustained any kind of head injury in a motor vehicle collision should still visit their doctor or an urgent care center as soon as possible. Even if there is no way to treat a concussion, certain patients may require observation to reduce the risk of suffering from life-threatening complications.

Seeking medical care will also give your doctor the opportunity to diagnose and treat any injuries that are not exhibiting symptoms yet. Some impact injuries, like internal organ damage and whiplash, do not manifest signs or symptoms for hours or even days following the incident, which can give accident victims a false sense of security.

Once your doctor determines that it is safe for you to return home, it is important to take it easy. Activities that are either physically strenuous or mentally demanding can worsen the symptoms of a concussion.

Depending on the circumstances, doctors may even recommend that a patient does not go back to work or only returns part-time until symptoms subside entirely. This will give the brain a better chance of healing fully in a timely fashion.

At the end of the day, those who are recovering from an mTBI—or any kind of accident injury—should listen to their body. It is especially important to monitor your symptoms closely when facing injuries for which there are no effective treatments. If something does not feel right, it could be a sign of some kind of complication that does require medical care.

If you sustained a traumatic brain injury in a crash with a drunk, distracted, or reckless driver, contact The Downs Law Firm today. Ross Downs is a member of the Louisiana Trial Lawyers Association, as well as the Louisiana State and American Bar Associations.

Call 318-284-8551 to schedule a free case evaluation with a personal injury lawyer in Shreveport. If you want to learn more about collision claims in Louisiana, visit usattorneys.com/car-accident/louisiana.