Jason Stephens | June 14, 2023 | Brain Injuries

Concussions can happen in an instant. They can result from a range of accidents, from car accidents to falls from heights — or even a bad tackle at a football game. For some, a mild concussion means only a few weeks of headaches or compromised thinking. Others, though, may suffer permanently compromised cognitive function. 

What kind of damage do concussions cause, and what’s the prognosis for long-term healing from a concussion? 

What Causes a Concussion?

Concussions are caused by blunt head trauma. Your head strikes the ground or another object, and the force of the blow causes the brain to collide with the interior of the skull. 

Any kind of head trauma can lead to a concussion, even if you’re wearing a helmet or hard hat. 

Common situations that cause concussions include: 

A pedestrian who is struck by a car may also suffer a concussion.

Anytime you hit your head, you risk a concussion. Some people may not seek medical care after a minor blow to the head and don’t realize they have a concussion. Unfortunately, a second head injury after an initial concussion can lead to worse and more serious brain damage. 

How Does a Concussion Damage Brain Tissue?

Swelling, bruising, and bleeding are common when the brain strikes the inside of the skull. Sometimes if the force is strong enough, the brain tissue tears. Concussions stretch and bruise the brain tissue, damaging blood vessels, which can lead to brain bleeding. 

Bleeding in the brain deprives sections of the brain of oxygen, further damaging tissue. 

Usually, a first concussion isn’t enough to cause permanent brain damage. But the temporary damage can be painful enough. Chronic headaches, difficulty concentrating, and personality changes are common concussion effects. You may also have problems with memory, concentration, or balance if certain parts of the brain are damaged. 

Short-Term Damage from a Concussion

Some of the most common forms of damage from an initial concussion include headaches, sensitivity to light and noise, and problems concentrating. Some people may have personality changes as well, becoming more irritable or prone to angry outbursts. 

Changes in sleeping and eating patterns are also common. Chronic insomnia leads to many other problems and can delay healing, so rest is important for concussion recovery. 

What Kind of Permanent Brain Damage Does a Concussion Cause? 

Severe and long-term damage is possible with serious concussions or multiple concussions. Permanent brain damage may leave the concussion victim unable to care for themselves independently, work, or go to school. 

Memory loss or trouble forming memories are common with severe and multiple concussions. Some people may experience cognitive decline similar to dementia after a concussion and require accommodations in a memory care home. 

Multiple or serious concussions may also cause the onset of Parkinson’s disease or Alzheimer’s disease. The sleep disturbances common in concussions may aggravate these conditions. 

Healing from a Concussion

Rest and time are the best ways to heal from a concussion. Your brain is capable of healing itself and will often do so. Avoiding situations where you risk another blow to the head is critical as you heal. Second and subsequent concussions cause even more damage after an initial concussion, and the damage can be permanent. 

How Can You Pay for Medical Care After a Concussion in Fort Worth, TX? 

Receiving medical care for a concussion in Fort Worth can be expensive. If you suffered a concussion through an accident you didn’t cause, the party responsible for your injury may be liable for your medical care and concussion treatment. Any settlement you receive can be used to pay for medical care and lost wages if you miss work to heal. 

A skilled Fort Worth brain injury lawyer can determine whether you have a case for compensatory damages.

Contact Our Brain Injury Law Firm in Fort Worth, TX

If you’ve been injured in an accident in Fort Worth and need legal help, contact our Fort Worth brain injury lawyers at Stephens Law Personal Injury | Wrongful Death | Truck Accidents to schedule a free consultation.

Stephens Law Personal Injury | Wrongful Death | Truck Accidents
1300 S University Dr # 300
Fort Worth, TX 76107
(817) 420-7000