Is a Traumatic Brain Injury the Same Thing as a Concussion?
Concussions are a form of traumatic brain injury (TBI) that affect the functioning of your brain. The effects of a concussion can include headaches, concentration problems, and difficulties with balance and coordination, and are usually temporary. Concussions—like all TBIs—are typically caused by either a blow to the head or the violent shaking of the head. If you think you’ve suffered a concussion, seek medical attention as soon as possible.
The Effects of a Concussion
While a concussion is a mild version of a TBI, it can still cause serious health complications that require immediate medical treatment. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention relay that most TBIs are concussions and that TBIs are responsible for more than 2.5 million emergency room visits each year.
Concussions don’t always exhibit obvious symptoms and all too often they can go undetected and untreated. Some classic symptoms, however, can signify a concussion, which includes but are not limited to:
- Nausea
- Confusion
- Dizziness
- Blurred vision
- Ringing in the ears
- Headaches
- Fatigue
- Issues with balance
Even when a concussion doesn’t cause obvious symptoms, it can still lead to serious long-term health issues, which make a concussion a significant health risk. If you have hit your head or suffered a sharp jolt of the head, it is always wise to undergo a medical evaluation in case you have a concussion.
Moderate and Severe Traumatic Brain Injuries
While concussions are usually temporary, moderate and severe traumatic brain injuries often have longer-lasting health consequences. Your brain—even though it’s afforded the protection of your skull—is extremely vulnerable to injury. Because your brain is your body’s command central, a moderate or severe TBI can permanently alter the course of your life in an instant.
The Mayo Clinic identifies the most common causes of TBIs:
- Falls – Falls are the number one cause of TBIs, and everyone is vulnerable to them. While some falls are relatively innocuous, many lead to serious injuries, including TBIs. Young children and the elderly are most at risk.
- Traffic Accidents – Vehicular accidents are another major cause of TBIs and concussions. An accident doesn’t even have to involve high speeds to result in serious brain injury. When cars collide, passengers and drivers alike are slammed against their vehicles‘ interiors, and that impact can be extremely dangerous to the brain.
- Sports Injuries – Sports are fun, healthy activities, but they can also be dangerous—and some, of course, are more dangerous than others. Football and other high-impact sports, for example, have recently received a lot of press for their associations with brain injury risk factors.
Contact an Experienced Florida Brain Injury Attorney Today
If someone else’s negligence caused you to suffer a concussion or more serious TBI, you need an experienced Ocala personal injury attorney. TBIs are dangerous and can lead to life-altering health consequences. The Ocala personal injury attorneys at Meldon Law are here to help. We have the skill, knowledge, and dedication to navigate your claim toward its best possible resolution. For more information, please contact us online or call us at (800) 373-8000 today.
