
Are Concussions Life Threatening?

Auto accidents can cause a range of injuries. The need for medical attention is obvious with some types of injuries. However, certain injuries, such as concussions, aren’t always obvious initially. That’s why it’s crucial to seek evaluation from a doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating car accident injuries.
Here at Tulsa Accident Care Center in Tulsa, Oklahoma, auto accident specialist Robert Mitchell, MD, and our team of experienced and compassionate medical professionals provide comprehensive auto accident care. Following a car accident, prompt and accurate diagnosis and treatment can make all the difference.
While concussions are rarely life-threatening, they’re serious and require medical attention. Keep reading to learn why concussions are dangerous and what you should do if you sustain a concussion in a car crash.
Auto accidents and concussions
A concussion occurs when a blow or jolt to the head or body causes the brain to move rapidly back and forth against the skull. You can sustain a concussion in a car accident if your head collides with a headrest, steering wheel, window, or another object.
However, you can also get a concussion even if your head doesn’t come in contact with anything. This is because the force of an accident could cause your brain to shift rapidly, regardless of whether your head hits anything.
Many people believe concussions are minor and may delay seeking medical attention. However, even a mild concussion can have a serious impact on your health. If you've been in an auto accident and think you have a concussion or aren’t sure, you should seek medical attention.
Concussion symptoms
Some signs of a head injury may occur quickly after a car accident, while others may appear days or even weeks later. It's crucial to remember that even if there are no visible bruises or broken skin, any hit to the head can be serious. Look out for these signs and symptoms:
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Nausea
- Confusion
- Irritability
- Mood swings
- Restlessness
- Changes in sleep
- Sensitivity to light
- Sensitivity to sound
- Feeling off-balance
- Memory problems
- Changes in mood
- Problems concentrating
After a car accident, if you start to suffer from any of these concussion symptoms, you should see a doctor.
Steps to take after a car accident
Knowing what to do after a car accident can help you get the treatment you need as quickly as possible. The following are some useful steps you can take if you get involved in a car accident.
Get examined immediately
When you’re in a car accident, time is of the essence. When it comes to correctly treating this injury, the sooner you receive the necessary diagnostic tests and medical treatment, the better your chances will be of making a full recovery and avoiding serious or permanent harm.
Get treatment right away
After receiving a diagnosis, you’ll receive an appropriate treatment plan. It’s crucial not to delay treatment after your diagnosis. Follow your treatment plan, participate in your recovery, and attend all follow-up appointments.
Don’t wait for your injury to get better on its own
Don’t try to “tough it out.” If you don't get medical help quickly, it could result in chronic pain and impairment. Any brain injury, regardless of how mild, requires prompt medical evaluation and treatment. Even if you feel well and have no distressing symptoms, treatment is essential.
Never ignore a concussion. If you’ve experienced a blow or jolt to the head or have symptoms of a concussion, call 918-888-8080 or book an appointment online with Tulsa Accident Care Center.
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