Concussions can leave individuals with lasting symptoms. Even though most individuals think concussions are relatively minor, and that is often the case, the reality is that long-term effects need to be discussed and understood by concussion victims and a trusted medical professional. Here, we want to briefly overview some of the most common long-term effects concussions can cause individuals.
Concussions Are Brain Injuries
Concussions are considered to be a mild form of a traumatic brain injury (TBI). We bring that up to point out that concussions are indeed brain injuries, and they must be taken seriously. Our brains significantly impact our day-to-day operations and our health. Even a seemingly mild concussion can lead to significant long-term consequences. Even though most concussion symptoms are relatively short-term, lasting only a few hours or a few days, they can still cause long-term problems that most people are unaware of.
Concussions: The Long-Term Impacts You Need to Know
Symptoms of a concussion can develop hours or days after the traumatic brain injury occurs. Some of the most common long-term effects of a concussion include the following:
- Memory problems
- Trouble concentrating
- Sensitivity to noise and light
- Sleep disturbances
- Irritability
- Other personality changes
- Depression or other psychological issues
- Problems with taste or smell
The good news is that the long-term effects of concussions are relatively rare. Information presented by the University of Utah shows that around 20% of individuals may suffer from post-concussion symptoms, and they may experience these symptoms for up to six weeks after the injury occurs. However, studies also indicate that the more concussions an individual sustains, the more likely they are to suffer from long-term consequences. This is especially true if individuals do not give their brains enough time to heal in between each concussion they sustain.
Unfortunately, this means that individuals engaged in routine vigorous full contact activities are more likely to suffer from long-term consequences associated with concussions. This includes those who play contact sports such as football, rugby, cheerleading, and other physical activities.
Do You Need to See a Doctor After a Concussion?
Yes, it is very important for individuals to seek medical care after sustaining a concussion. Even if a blow to the head or body seems relatively minor, we strongly encourage individuals to seek medical treatment for an evaluation. It is not uncommon for individuals to sustain a head injury and choose not to seek medical care right away. This can be detrimental. We most recently saw the dangers of not seeking medical care after a blow to the head with the death of comedian Bob Saget. An autopsy released in February of 2022 showed that Mr. Saget died from head trauma. Investigators say that it appears Saget sustained a blow to the head, did not think it was serious and went to bed. Unfortunately, he never woke up.
This type of story happens far too often across the country. Brain injuries are often unseen, and this can lead to bleeding under the skull that builds pressure and can cause long-term disabilities or even death in a relatively short amount of time.
Any bump or blow to the head or body must be taken seriously. We encourage you to monitor anyone that you know who has sustained a head injury and ensure that they receive prompt medical attention.
Contact us today for a free consultation if you’ve been involved in an accident resulting in a concussion.