Head injuries are common in automobile accidents, falls, and other personal injury cases. Concussions are often the result of a head injury. A concussion can develop after a minor blow to the head. It can also occur after whiplash or other violent movement of the head that causes injury to the brain when it moves within the skull.
In many cases, there are no outward signs of head trauma, and the person does not lose consciousness. The only signs of trauma may be the
symptoms of concussion that doctor’s use to diagnose the condition and the severity of the concussion. In some cases, brain damage may be visible on a CT scan or other diagnostic scan.
While most people recover from a mild concussion or mild traumatic brain injury in a few weeks, there could be complications. Post-concussion syndrome (PCS) is just one complication that can cause long-term impairments.
What is Post-Concussion Syndrome?
Post-concussion syndrome (PCS) describes the persistent physical, emotional, and cognitive symptoms associated with a concussion that last beyond the usual recovery period. The symptoms can be mild to severe and last for several weeks, months, or years. In a small number of cases, PCS could be permanent. Someone who has suffered from a concussion or mild traumatic brain injury previously could be at a higher risk for developing PCS after a head injury.
It can be difficult to diagnose PCS because most brain scans do not detect the minor damage that can cause PCS. In most cases, doctors must rely on the subjective symptoms reported by the patient and the history of a head injury or injuries.
Common
symptoms associated with post-concussion syndrome include:
- Slower response speed
- Poor concentration
- Memory problems
- Disorganization
- Mental fogginess
- Headache
- Nausea, dizziness, and vertigo
- Fatigue
- Vision changes
- Noise or light sensitivity
- Sleep disturbance
- Depression
- Anxiety or panic attacks
- Personality changes
- Irritability or lowered frustration tolerance
The above list of PCS symptoms is not an exhaustive list of symptoms. Someone suffering from PCS can experience any symptoms associated with head traumas or other symptoms. It is important to seek medical treatment if you experience symptoms of any type so that you can be properly diagnosed and treated.
How is Post-Concussion Syndrome Treated?
The treatment for PCS is typically the same as the treatment for a mild concussion or minor TBI. A person can recover given time and rest at home. Most doctors advise patients to get plenty of sleep at night, rest during the day, and avoid activities that require substantial concentration or physical exertion.
In addition, many medical providers treat the symptoms of PCS with over-the-counter medications or prescription medications for pain, nausea, vomiting, and antidepressants. However, medication can only treat the symptoms of post-concussion syndrome.
Damages and Losses Associated with Post-Concussion Syndrome
As discussed above, most cases of PCS resolve themselves, and individuals can return to normal activities. A small number of individuals may sustain permanent impairments from PCS. The damages and losses associated with PCS can be substantial, depending on the severity and length of recovery. Damages and losses associated with post-concussion syndrome can include:
- The cost of medical care and personal care
- Loss of income and benefits
- Physical pain and suffering
- Mental anguish
- Emotional disorders
- Loss of quality of life and enjoyment of life
- Permanent impairments and disabilities
If the head trauma was the result of an accident caused by another party, a victim suffering from PCS might be entitled to compensation for damages and losses. The amount of compensation depends on numerous factors, including the severity of the injury and the amount of financial losses sustained because of the injury.
If you believe that your PCS diagnosis is the result of head trauma caused by an accident, we encourage you to contact a Maryland personal injury attorney for a
free consultation. Working with a personal injury attorney who understands the legal requirements to prove fault and liability can increase your chance of recovering compensation for your losses. Furthermore, your attorney can work closely with your physicians to obtain a detailed prognosis that explains any permanent impairments that would result in ongoing and future losses and damages.
Contact a Maryland Personal Injury Lawyer for Help
If you are injured in an accident, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. It is also important to seek the advice of an experienced legal professional who can help you protect your right to receive fair and just compensation for your injuries, losses, and damages.
The Pinder Plotkin wants to help you hold the party responsible for your injury accountable for their actions. Call our office at
410-525-5337 for a
free consultation with one of our Maryland personal injury attorneys.
