Concussion

Concussions are common after head injuries such as those you may suffer in an auto collision.  Particularly in a whiplash injury from rear end collision, the head flexes and extends from the force of the impact.  This leads to shaking of the brain against the bones of the skull.  Compression of the brain as it shakes back and forth in the skull can affect memory and mental performance for a significant time after a collision. 

Some signs and symptoms of brain trauma and injury may present at the time of an auto collision.  Loss of consciousness is a clear sign of trauma to the brain.  However, in many concussions consciousness is not fully lost, and a patient may instead be much shaken and have difficulty assessing the situation or determining what to do.  Often, patients report sitting in their vehicle for some time after a collision before realizing they need to exit and exchange information. 

Memory difficulty is common with concussions as well.  You may have difficulty recalling detailedinformation you are normally very familiar with such as your phone number or address.  Forgetting where you placed items such as your keys or phone is common as well. 

Irritability is common as well both directly from the concussion, as well as frustration dealing with the other symptoms. 

Ringing in the ears can occur after concussions and may last for some time after the initial injury. 

After a concussion, it is important to rest and avoid strenuous physical and mental activity.  Strenuous physical and mental activity can further fatigue the brain and nerves as they are healing. 

It is important to seek medical care if you believe you have a concussion.  Head injuries can result in bleeding within the skull which is a medical emergency.  This can be difficult to identify especially if you are suffering from the effects of a concussion at the time. 

It may be necessary to avoid sports and other activities with an elevated risk of head injury following a concussion.  After a concussion, the brain is very sensitive to hard blows.  A second concussion while recovering from a concussion that is already present can cause a severe reaction with permanent effects or even death.

Chiropractors are well placed to treat injuries resulting from a car accident and can help determine the severity of a concussion and further action necessary.  Our chiropractor has an advanced Certification in Whiplash and Brain Injury Traumatology from the Spine Research Institute of San Diego, and she specializes in treating motor vehicle accident (MVA) injuries.

Visit our chiropractic clinic in Portland, or Aloha / Beaverton, OR if you have been injured in an auto accident.