By: Liam Payne
If you were recently in a car accident and hit your head, you may want to consider when to go to the doctor. If you do, you will be able to get the diagnosis and treatment that you need to recover from the injury. Here are the top reasons to see a physician immediately after an accident:
Symptoms
Symptoms of hitting your head can include dizziness, nausea, headache, and vision problems. It is important to seek medical help if you experience any of these symptoms. Depending on the extent of the injury, you may need to stay in the hospital.
Severe head injuries can be fatal. Getting proper medical care is the best way to prevent complications. If you have a serious head injury, you should not drive or participate in any contact sports until you’ve recovered.
Head injuries are common, but you should be aware of the signs of a head injury. Signs of a severe head injury include slurred speech, dizziness, and vomiting. You may also have neck pain and headaches.
Mild head injuries can lead to headaches, fatigue, and cognitive issues. Some people can go home after a mild head injury. However, it can take weeks to recover.
A mild TBI is usually treated with over-the-counter pain relievers and a gradual return to activities. The health care provider will monitor your condition and may order a scan of your head.
Diagnosis
Head injuries are common, and can cause many different symptoms. While most of them are minor, some are severe. If you suspect that you or a loved one has suffered from a head injury, go to the hospital immediately.
A doctor will ask questions about your injury. Then they will look at your face, neck, and head. They may also order tests. These tests can help the doctor diagnose the injury.
Severe concussions require immediate medical attention. Some signs to look for include slurred speech, double vision, and difficulty waking up. You can also have a headache that won’t go away.
Minor concussions aren’t dangerous, but they can cause symptoms such as confusion, dizziness, and blurred vision. These symptoms will usually go away in a few days, but you should see a doctor.
Children are at a higher risk for getting head injuries. Head injuries in children can cause changes in balance, memory, and reaction time.
Treatment
If you’ve been injured in a car crash or fall, you should visit the emergency room. The first thing the doctor will ask you is if you’ve been hit in the head. They’ll also ask about the details of the injury.
Once you have been treated, you should take rest. This means you should not return to work, school, or contact sports.
Rest is important for the brain to heal. You should also avoid texting, emailing, and watching television. These activities require a lot of focus. During this time, you should ask your family to watch you.
If you do not feel better after a few days, go to the emergency room. Your doctor may order tests to check for bleeding or other complications.
The ER will also have medications for a wide variety of conditions. Don’t take sedatives or drugs without your doctor’s approval.
Headaches are one of the most common symptoms of a head injury. Symptoms can vary from mild to severe.
Recovery time
Most people who have suffered a head injury recover well, but in rare cases, it can take longer than expected. The severity of the injury, the type of activity involved, and the patient’s general health all influence recovery time. Getting an accurate diagnosis is important to ensure that symptoms are properly treated.
After hitting your head, you should seek immediate medical treatment. You should also avoid activities that could worsen your condition, like alcohol, drugs, or thinking. Your doctor can provide information on when you should go to the ER or visit a concussion specialist.
In the first 24 hours, you should avoid drinking alcohol and taking sedatives. You should not eat for at least six to 12 hours. Try to get enough sleep. Taking Tylenol is safe during the first 48 hours, but do not exceed the maximum dose.
A doctor can order a CT scan or MRI to determine the extent of your injury. They can tell you what signs to watch for, such as a change in your sleep patterns. Depending on the type of injury, your doctor may recommend that you take a break from sport for 7 to 10 days.
