Waiting to Get Care Can Lead to Unnecessary Complications
There’s a common myth that, unless you lose consciousness after a bump of blow to the head, you haven’t suffered a concussion or TBI, so you don’t need to see a medical professional…a little rest and the injury will heal on its own. That’s simply not true. Even a mild concussion can have long-lasting and debilitating consequences. Furthermore, you don’t even need to strike your head on the ground, the dashboard of your car or any other foreign object. You can suffer serious brain injury from a sudden stop or change of direction, as your brain careens off the inside of your skull.
Unfortunately, because of those misperceptions about the nature of concussions or traumatic brain injury, too many people fail to seek immediate medical care after a head injury, often with serious consequences. Research shows that, when not correctly diagnosed and treated soon enough, a concussion (generally considered a mild traumatic brain injury) can cause permanent injury to your brain, often resulting in long-term disability and occasionally in death. The consequences can be even more serious for children and young adults whose brains have not fully developed.
The Potential Risks of Second Impact Syndrome
Medical researchers have long known that your brain is weakened when you’ve had any type or level of concussion, and that a repeat blow to the head before your brain has healed can have devastating consequences. Early diagnosis can help you avoid situations where you may be at risk of what’s commonly referred to as “second impact syndrome.”
What to Do in the Immediate Aftermath of Any Type Head Injury
The best recourse after a bump or blow to the head is to schedule an appointment with your primary care physician. Your doctor will have the skills, tools and resources to make the correct assessment and either prescribe a regimen of care or refer you to a specialist, such as a neurologist or physiatrist.
If you can’t get in to see your primary care physician the day of your injury, it’s best to go to an urgent care facility or a hospital emergency room. Time can be critical in the aftermath of any type of head injury—the sooner you seek care, the more options medical professionals will typically have.
Contact Us to Set Up an Appointment
At Advantage Healthcare Systems, we have extensive experience working successfully with individuals who suffer any type of concussion, TBI or traumatic brain injury. Call us toll-free at 1-877-487-8289 or fill out the form provided below to schedule an assessment. We offer locations across Texas, including Fort Worth, Dallas and San Antonio.
