For Many People the Symptoms of Concussion Linger for 6 Months or More

May 11, 2023, Kitchener, Ontario

Posted by: Robert Deutschmann, Personal Injury Lawyer

Head injuries like concussion and TBI are common in car accidents, slip and falls, workplace injuries, bike and motorcycle accidents and in sports accidents. According to Public Health Ontario concussions are the most common form of head injury and constitute a significant burden of injury to Ontarians. The Canadian Paediatric Society estimates that over 200,000 people a year suffer concussion.

Concussions are a common injury, especially among athletes and those who engage in contact sports. They can occur from a blow to the head, a fall, or any other activity that causes the brain to jostle inside the skull. While most people recover from a concussion within a few weeks, there is a growing concern about the number of people who continue to experience symptoms for months or even years after the initial injury. In fact, nearly half of those who sustain a concussion still have symptoms 6 months later.

There are a variety of symptoms that can occur after a concussion, including headaches, dizziness, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and memory problems. These symptoms can be mild or severe and can have a significant impact on a person's daily life. In some cases, people may experience post-concussion syndrome, a condition that occurs when symptoms persist for an extended period of time. Post-concussion syndrome can last for months or even years and can be extremely debilitating.

The fact that nearly half of those who sustain a concussion still have symptoms 6 months later is a cause for concern. This statistic suggests that many people are not receiving adequate treatment for their concussion or are not taking the necessary steps to ensure a full recovery. It also highlights the need for more research into the long-term effects of concussions and how best to treat them.

One of the reasons that symptoms may persist after a concussion is that the injury can cause damage to the brain. While the brain is a remarkable organ that can recover from many types of injuries, it can also be very delicate. A concussion can cause small tears in the brain's tissues, which can lead to inflammation and other problems. This can make it difficult for the brain to function properly and can lead to ongoing symptoms.

Another factor that can contribute to persistent symptoms is the failure to properly rest and recover after a concussion. When a person sustains a concussion, it is important to give the brain time to heal. This may require taking time off from work or school, avoiding activities that require a lot of mental or physical exertion, and getting plenty of rest. Failing to do so can prolong recovery time and increase the risk of long-term symptoms.

Treating a concussion and its symptoms can be challenging. In some cases, medication may be prescribed to help manage symptoms such as headaches or depression. Cognitive behavioral therapy may also be recommended to help people manage their symptoms and adjust to any changes in their daily life. In addition, it is important to take steps to prevent future concussions, such as wearing protective headgear during sports or other activities.

If you or someone you know has sustained a concussion, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. A healthcare provider can evaluate the injury and recommend a course of treatment. It is also important to follow any recommendations for rest and recovery and to take steps to prevent future concussions.

The fact that nearly half of those who sustain a concussion still have symptoms 6 months later highlights the need for more research into the long-term effects of concussions and how best to treat them. It is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible after a concussion and to take steps to ensure a full recovery. By doing so, we can help reduce the risk of long-term symptoms and improve outcomes for those who have sustained a concussion.

If you or a loved one has sustained a concussion, or traumatic brain injury as the result of an accident due to someone else’s negligence please contact one of our highly experienced personal injury lawyers today. Don’t’ face your situation alone.

About Deutschmann Law

Deutschmann Law serves South-Western Ontario with offices in Kitchener-Waterloo, Cambridge, Woodstock, Brantford, Stratford and Ayr. The law practice of Robert Deutschmann focuses almost exclusively in personal injury and disability insurance matters. For more information, please visit www.deutschmannlaw.com or call us at 1-519-742-7774.

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