As the medical community learns more about concussions, there’s been more emphasis on early diagnosis and treatment. When patients follow medical advice after a concussion, like taking some time off from work, school, strenuous activity and even anything involving screens, the symptoms often resolve on their own.
These symptoms typically include:
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Hearing and vision problems
- Sound and light sensitivity
- Difficulty concentrating
- Fatigue
- Memory loss
- Increased irritability or other personality or emotional changes
For some people, however, symptoms can continue for months or even longer, and additional symptoms can develop. This is known as “post-concussion syndrome” or “persistent post-concussive symptoms.”
Why do some people develop post-concussion syndrome and others don’t?
Whether or not someone develops post-concussion syndrome may have little to do with how serious the injury is. Doctors have found that people who have a history of depression, anxiety or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are more likely to develop it.
That doesn’t make the effects of the concussion any less debilitating or the symptoms less real. Neither does it put any of the fault on the patient. What’s important to understand is that if the concussion resulted from a fall or other event caused by another party’s actions or negligence, they can still be held liable for expenses and damages related to post-concussion syndrome. For example, their ability to work, go to school or even be able to take care of their family on their own may be impacted.
The possibility of developing post-concussion syndrome is just one reason why it isn’t wise to settle a personal injury claim too soon. It’s important to know how long you may be dealing with the effects of your injuries. With sound legal guidance, you can help ensure you don’t get less than you need and deserve.