There's a certain amount of recovery involved any time you're injured while playing your favorite sport, and a concussion is no different. However, concussions are more serious because they can disrupt the brain's normal functioning in both the short and long term. Plus, the effects of a concussion aren't always as obvious as a swollen ankle or broken wrist. You might feel like you can get back in the game after a concussion, but doing so could be dangerous to your brain health. If you’ve suffered a sports injury concussion, talk to your doctor about recovery recommendations. Then, discuss your options for financial recovery with a traumatic brain injury lawyer.
Symptoms of a Sports Injury Concussion
The most common sign that a person has suffered a concussion is a dull, aching pain at the location of the injury. However, it's important to recognize other symptoms, including:
- Headaches that increase in severity;
- Weakness in the extremities and decreased coordination;
- Vomiting;
- One pupil appearing larger than the other;
- Seizures or convulsions;
- Confusion and attention span issues; and,
- Slurring of speech.
These are signs of a concussion and may even mean worse damage to the brain. Concussion may be accompanied by a dangerous blood clot that forms on the brain, crowding the sensitive tissues.
Special Considerations for Children
Younger victims of a concussion often cannot express themselves in a meaningful way regarding their pain, which makes it difficult for parents, other adults, and caretakers to recognize the signs. However, there are certain indications to look out for if a child has suffered a blow to the head and could potentially have a concussion.
- Observe the child to see if he or she exhibits any or all of the danger symptoms mentioned for adults.
- Monitor the young person for odd behavior, such as crying, restlessness, or irritation.
- Watch out for signs that the child won't eat or an infant won't nurse.
Tips for Recovery
The most common recommendation for doctors treating patients for concussion is to get plenty of rest. This may mean staying on the sidelines for awhile and gradually becoming more active in preparing to play in actual sports competition. Your brain is highly sensitive and the trauma of a concussion is a condition that requires healing – just like a bone break or muscle strain.
Contact a Brain Injury Attorney if You've Suffered a Sports Injury Concussion
Proper recovery is your primary priority after you suffer a sports injury concussion, but it's also important to discuss your legal options for compensation with a traumatic brain injury lawyer when you’re feeling up to it. An attorney can assist you with obtaining compensation for your medical bills, pain and suffering, and lost wages if you were out of work after your injury. At The Casper Firm, our skilled lawyers have years of experience in all types of concussion incidents and we're happy to talk with you about your case. Please contact our Baltimore office to schedule a no-obligation consultation or with questions about sports injury concussions.
