Is a Concussion Considered a Serious Head Injury?

Concussions are tricky. Ignoring even a mild one can create serious problems over time. Whether you’ve hit your head during a car accident, hurt yourself during a sporting match, or had another type of head trauma, it’s always important to see a medical provider as soon as possible.  

Injury and Health Urgent Care offers concussion checks as well as treatment for this type of head injury. Melissa Kempf, MD, and Shannon Wait, DNP, APRN, FNP-C, will be able to walk you through the problem and provide you with any information necessary, including how serious the injury actually is.

Concussion 101: what it is and how it’s likely to happen

A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury that occurs when the brain twists or moves violently inside the skull. When this happens, blood vessels and nerves can be injured, triggering chemical reactions that temporarily alter the way the brain works. 

People who are most likely to get concussions are young athletes, especially those involved in contact sports. However, anyone who gets hit in the head or whose head moves violently (as the result of a car accident, a fall, or another injury) can get a concussion. 

Why even a mild concussion can be serious 

Concussions usually aren’t life-threatening, and most people who experience one will recover easily after a few days. 

However, your brain must have a chance to rest and repair following a concussion to avoid worsening symptoms of:

• Dizziness
• Headache
• Difficulty concentrating
• Memory loss
• Irritability
• Fatigue
• Confusion

Concussions usually cause the most intense symptoms in the first few hours, but you could also experience symptoms several days or weeks after the injury. This is especially concerning if you haven’t had the proper diagnosis. 

Long-term complications of concussions include frequent headaches, balance issues, severe mood swings, problems with sleep, confusion, and even amnesia. If you suspect a possible concussion, it’s always safer to seek medical attention than to assume you’re fine.  

What we’ll do to help

Your visit to Injury and Health Urgent Care starts with a short exam. We’ll ask you a few questions, check your reflexes, and ensure your vision and balance are both working properly. You may also benefit from imaging studies, such as a CT scan.

The best treatment for a concussion is rest, both physical and mental. This includes avoiding reading, homework, screen time, and other activities that require your brain to engage. We’ll likely write you a note for work or school so that you can take a little time off and provide a list of activities to avoid until you’re feeling better. 

Finally, our office works with legal teams to ensure you receive coverage for any accident you may have experienced, whether work-related, personal, or otherwise. 

Get seen immediately for a suspected concussion

While your life probably isn’t in danger, concussions should be taken seriously to avoid long-term complications. Treatment starts with an accurate diagnosis by a medical professional. 

Visit us at our San Antonio, Texas, office and get support for your injury or accident today. Just call or book online.