What Happens If A Concussion Is Untreated?

Colburn Law

Posted in Brain Injury on November 23, 2020

A concussion is a traumatic brain injury that occurs when you suffer any intense trauma to the head, such as a violent blow or shaking during a car accident. The signs and symptoms of a concussion can be subtle, and it can be difficult to know if you should see a doctor after a head injury.

However, a concussion can worsen and result in long-lasting symptoms without medical attention. In some cases, an untreated concussion can be fatal. If you have suffered a TBI due to the negligence of another, you may be eligible for compensation. Contact our Seattle traumatic brain injury lawyers today for a free case evaluation.

Untreated Concussion Complications

Concussions can affect your brain function and may lead to permanent brain damage if you do not seek immediate medical attention. These symptoms can impact your quality of life and prevent you from engaging in the activities you once enjoyed.

Mental health problems are some of the most concerning untreated concussion symptoms. You may develop an anxiety disorder, depression, and emotional dysregulation due to the changes in your brain function. You can experience difficulty expressing positive emotions or controlling negative thoughts.

You may also develop post-concussion syndrome, a condition that causes headaches, mood swings, brain fog, and dizziness that could last for months or years after your accident. All of these complications can impact your relationships and ability to succeed in work or school.

Additional complications of untreated concussions include the following.

• Chronic headaches
• Memory loss
• Vertigo

Symptoms of a Concussion

Concussion symptoms may not show up until a little while after your accident. In fact, some people do not notice any symptoms at all. Regardless of how you are feeling, you should always go to a hospital as soon as possible to have a doctor examine your brain and treat your condition.

Some of the most common concussion symptoms include the following.

• Headache
• Ringing in the ears
• Nausea and vomiting
• Fatigue
• Blurred vision

Other people may experience amnesia, dizziness, and a temporary loss of consciousness. Slurred speech and forgetfulness are also common concussion symptoms; you may also experience difficulty with concentration or memory.

While you should go to the doctor after any head injury, you should seek emergency medical attention if you experience an extended loss of consciousness, changes in behavior, balance, or speech, seizures, or repeated vomiting or nausea. A worsening headache or fluids draining from the nose or ears are also serious symptoms.

What to Do After a Head Injury

Any accident that results in a blow to the head can be scary, from workplace injuries to construction site accidents and motor vehicle collisions. Your first priority in these situations is to seek emergency medical attention as soon as possible.

In some cases, someone else’s actions are responsible for your head injury, and you may be able to hold the responsible party liable for your injuries through a lawsuit or insurance claim. An insurance or personal injury settlement can help you pay for your concussion-related medical treatment, lost wages during recovery, property damage, and your physical or emotional pain and suffering.

To protect your right to compensation after an accident, take the following steps.

• Take photographs of your injuries, property damage, and area around the accident if it is safe to do so.
• Save all medical records related to your accident and subsequent treatment.
• Ask any witnesses in the area if you can have their contact information. They may be able to provide testimony in your case.
• Start a journal of your symptoms. Each day, record how you felt, the treatment you received, and the status of your injury.
• Contact a Seattle personal injury attorney as soon as possible.

After seeking treatment for your concussion, speak to a lawyer who can represent your case. Your attorney will evaluate your case, explain your legal options, and initiate the first steps toward your recovery.