August 3, 2023

When Your Headache Is a Sign of a Concussion

When the unexpected happens, like a car accident, the aftermath can often be disorienting and confusing. From assessing the damage to your vehicle to dealing with insurance companies, it can be all too easy to overlook one crucial aspect: your health.

It's important to pay attention to how you're feeling physically in the hours, days, and weeks following the accident, particularly with regard to headaches. Sometimes, a headache is more than just a headache; it could signal a concussion.

At Tulsa Accident Care Center in Tulsa, Oklahoma, our providers are committed to helping patients recognize the signs of a concussion, and we’re dedicated to providing the necessary treatment to ensure their well-being. Understanding the implications of a concussion after a car accident is critical, not just for your immediate health, but also for your long-term recovery.

Recognizing the signs of a concussion

A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury often caused by a blow to the head, such as in a car accident. The sudden jot can cause the brain to shake around in the skull, which can lead to potential damage to brain cells.

Symptoms of a concussion can vary, but they often include headaches, dizziness, nausea, confusion, and sensitivity to light or noise. It's essential to monitor your symptoms closely after an accident. At Tulsa Accident Care Center, our team is trained to recognize and evaluate concussion symptoms accurately.

Delayed onset of symptoms

It's crucial to remember that concussion symptoms might not appear immediately following an accident. This delayed onset can lead people to believe they're fine, when they may, in fact, have a concussion.

These delayed symptoms can present themselves hours or even days after an accident. As such, any change in physical or mental status following an accident should prompt immediate medical attention. Tulsa Accident Care Center is equipped to assess these symptoms, so we can help make sure you receive timely treatment.

Seeking medical attention

The moment you start experiencing any symptoms of a concussion, it's time to seek medical attention. Even if symptoms seem mild, it's better to be safe. Ignoring symptoms can lead to more serious health complications in the future.

At Tulsa Accident Care Center, our highly skilled medical team will perform a thorough examination to determine if you have a concussion. Then we’ll design a treatment plan to help you receive the best possible care.

Recovery and rehabilitation

Recovering from a concussion is a process that varies from person to person. Some people may experience symptoms for a few days, while others may deal with symptoms for several weeks or longer.

At Tulsa Accident Care Center, we guide our patients through every step of their recovery journey. Our comprehensive approach includes educating you about the nature of concussions, advising you on rest, and giving you direction on when it’s safe to return to your activities. And, we provide ongoing care throughout the process.

Preventing long-term complications

Left untreated, a concussion can lead to long-term complications, such as post-concussion syndrome, which is characterized by prolonged symptoms. By seeking immediate medical attention and following all recovery guidelines, these risks can be minimized.

Our providers as Tulsa Accident Care Center are dedicated to helping patients navigate the complex recovery process after experiencing a concussion. Our goal is to help reduce the risk for long-term complications and help patients return to their normal lives as quickly as possible.

To learn more, call 918-212-0563 or request an appointment online with Tulsa Accident Care Center today.