Even minor car accidents in Georgia can cause injuries that last for a while. Some of the injuries may not be obvious at first, which is why it is so important that everyone receives a medical examination after even the smallest accident. Things like whiplash and brain injuries may not show up for several days or weeks after the accident.
Brainline defines a concussion as a brain injury that interrupts brain function. Typically, the effects of a concussion are temporary, but at times they can lead to serious problems. They are most often caused by violently shaking the upper body or the head or by a blow to the head. Not all concussions lead to a loss of consciousness, so those who say they feel fine may not actually be okay.
According to the Mayo Clinic, some common signs of a concussion include the following:
- Pressure in the head or a headache
- Temporary loss of consciousness
- Amnesia about the event that caused the injury
- Confusion
- Vomiting or nausea
- Ringing in the ears
Other signs may not be prevalent immediately. These include memory and concentration complaints, personality changes and irritability, sensitivity to noise and light, disturbances in sleep patterns and disorders of smell and taste. Some concussions and head injuries can also lead to psychological disorders such as depression.
Those who have been in a car accident should seek emergency care if they have a headache that worsens over time or they are vomiting repeatedly. There may also be clumsiness, stumbling or other changes in physical coordination, eye or vision disturbances or seizures. If any of these signs or symptoms are present, it is important to seek medical help immediately.
