Getting involved in an auto accident could be a stressful experience. Any driver could feel upset after a minor crash. Still, these incidents could cause physical harm. These injuries could be mild but still result in troublesome symptoms, such as concussions.
This traumatic brain injury occurs when blunt force or impact makes the brain move within the skull. It frequently happens in car accidents, even minor collisions. Fortunately, they are not severe injuries and typically improve over a few weeks. However, they could lead to a wide range of symptoms that might affect the patient physically, mentally and emotionally. Concussion patients usually exhibit one or more of the following signs:
- Sensitivity to light and noise
- Balancing issues or dizziness
- Fatigue
- Headaches and nausea
- Vision issues
- Concentration problems
- Inability to focus
- Grogginess and mind fog
- Mood swings
- Easily angered or irritated
- Difficulty staying awake or falling asleep
Unfortunately, physicians might find challenges diagnosing a patient with a concussion, especially if they have other health issues with similar symptoms. Concussions tend to go away on their own, depending on the circumstances. If specific symptoms arise, they might signify other undetected injuries.
Warning signs that mean danger
Sometimes, a blow to the head could cause blood clots against the skull. These are severe injuries that require emergency care. A patient should call for help immediately if they experience the following symptoms:
- Worsening headaches regardless of the time passed since the incident
- Weakness, numbness and coordination problems
- Convulsions or seizures
- Unusual speech problems and mannerisms
- Inability to recognize people and places
- Agitation and confusion
- Unable to stay conscious
It could be best to see a doctor right after the accident to get ahead of any severe injuries.
Going to the hospital as a precaution
Sometimes, drivers could feel fine after a minor collision. Still, they could suffer injuries or pain hours or days after the crash. As a precaution, they could see a doctor immediately to check for any concussions and other underlying conditions.