People often try to self-assess the seriousness of their injuries after an accident. They understandably want to determine if they need to seek medical attention and talk to professionals or if they can just heal on their own. Oftentimes, the reason for this (beyond instinct) is that medical care is very expensive, so they do not want to make the decision to go to the hospital without a good reason. They’ll only go if it seems necessary to do so.
But it’s important for those who have potentially suffered head injuries to know that even seemingly minor head trauma should be taken seriously. Even when head injuries seem minor, they can lead to very significant consequences. It’s never a wise idea to skip medical treatment if someone’s head has suffered a blow as a result of a crash.
Cumulative trauma
For example, a concussion is often considered to be a relatively “minor” brain injury. But numerous concussions can lead to a condition known as Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE). This can cause people to become aggressive, to have trouble with their memory and to develop other symptoms of a potentially debilitating brain condition.
Bleeding in or around the brain
Another potential issue is an injury that leads to bleeding. An example of this is a subdural hematoma. Bleeding in the brain or in the tissues surrounding the brain can put pressure on brain cells. This can cause the condition to get progressively worse and it could even become fatal if it isn’t treated.
Going to sleep
Finally, it’s wise to consider the risk of sleeping. Some people try to get some rest, hoping that will help a head injury. But it can be dangerous to sleep after a brain injury. It’s not that sleep makes it worse; it just masks your symptoms, which may be progressing on their own while you sleep. As such, it’s best to see a doctor first.
But what about the expense?
Diagnostic tests and treatment can be very expensive, and that’s why it’s important for those who have been injured due to someone else’s negligence to understand the legal options at their disposal. They may be able to seek compensation for the medical costs and other bills stemming from the harm they’ve suffered. Seeking legal guidance is a good place to start.