A concussion is a brain injury caused by a blow to the head or other outside force that causes the brain to move within the skull.
Concussions are often associated with sports injuries or falls. But there are many other causes of concussions.
Just how common are concussions?
As it turns out, they are more common than many people realize.
According to an NPR-Truven Health Analytics Health Poll, nearly 1 in 4 Americans report having had a concussion sometime in their lives. Here are the details:
- 23.3 percent of respondents had suffered a concussion
- 78.9 percent sought medical treatment
A concussion is an injury that should be taken seriously. In the poll, 29 percent reported suffering long-term effects as the result of a concussion. The most common long-term effects of a concussion reported were:
- Headaches: 80.1 percent
- Concentration: 69 percent
- Memory: 67.1 percent
- Balance: 48.8 percent
- Coordination: 58.3 percent
It is highly advisable for anyone who has suffered a concussion or other brain injury to seek medical attention. An individual is in no condition to make a decision about medical care after suffering a concussion. It is important for loved ones to encourage an injured individual to seek medical treatment promptly. In some cases, it could mean the difference between life and death.
When a concussion is the result of an accident caused by another person or party’s negligence, the victim may be eligible for compensation through a personal injury claim. Examples of accidents caused by negligence include:
- Construction accidents
- Car accidents
- Bicycle or pedestrian accidents
- Slip-and-fall accidents
- Falling objects
Free consultation: If you or a loved one has suffered a concussion and wish to speak to a personal injury lawyer, please call us at 713-222-7211.