What is the Difference Between Concussions and Contusions?
The difference between a concussion and a contusion lies in how each impacts the brain. A concussion is a brain injury caused by a jolt or blow to the head. Comparatively, a contusion refers to a bruise.
Both concussions and contusions are classified as brain injuries. If you experience symptoms of either, you should get medical care immediately. Otherwise, the symptoms you suffer can linger. These could affect you long into the future.
If you suffer a concussion, contusion, or any other brain injury due to someone else’s negligence, you should seek legal help. Find a Nashville traumatic brain injury (TBI) lawyer to represent you. Together, you and your attorney can determine who is to blame for your injury. From here, you could request compensation from the liable party through an insurance claim or personal injury lawsuit.
What is a concussion?
A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury (TBI) that impacts the way the brain works. Not every person who experiences a blow to the head will necessarily experience a concussion, according to Mayo Clinic. However, an individual could suffer one or more of the following concussion symptoms due to head trauma:
- Headaches
- Vomiting
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Loss of consciousness
- Difficulty concentrating
Treating these and other concussion symptoms may require a combination of therapies. A doctor can tailor a concussion treatment program specifically to a patient’s symptoms. They may recommend rest, medications, and rehabilitation.
What is a contusion?
A contusion is sometimes referred to as a bruise. This injury occurs when a person suffers a blow to the head or other parts of the body. It can cause skin damage and impact the tissue beneath it at the injury site.
Generally, a person who has a contusion may notice skin discoloration where the injury happened. Determining if the injury is more serious and impacts the brain can be more challenging. A person could experience a headache, nausea, and other symptoms. At this point, it is beneficial to consult with a doctor, as they can diagnose and treat the injury properly.
A doctor can use a physical exam, computed tomography (CT) scan, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to determine the extent of the injury. If so, the doctor may recommend medication, surgery, or other treatments to address this issue.
Causes of concussions and contusions
Common reasons why people suffer concussions and contusions include:
Auto accidents
If a negligent motorist crashes their car into yours, you might hit your head on your vehicle’s steering wheel, or the impact could cause a jolt to your brain, causing it to collide with the inside of your skull. The type of crash could leave you with a concussion, contusion, or other serious injuries.
In this situation, it is important to receive prompt medical attention. And in the days after that auto crash, they need to speak to a Nashville car accident lawyer who can help hold the liable motorist accountable for their actions.
Truck accidents
Truck crashes are often more severe than car accidents because of the size and weight of the involved vehicles. Severe brain injuries are just one of the potential life-altering consequences of one of these wrecks.
Motorcycle accidents
Even with the protection of a helmet, motorcyclists are at risk of suffering severe head injuries. Without a helmet, the chances of a devastating brain injury are even more likely. Statistics indicate that of the around 4,500 motorcyclist deaths a year, 37% involved head injuries. Wearing a helmet reduces the likelihood of death by about 33%, indicating that they are effective, but that riding a motorcycle creates a risk of head injuries even with protective equipment.
Workplace accidents
There are many causes of workplace head injuries, especially in industries like construction. Some common causes include falls, slips and trips, falling objects, motor vehicle accidents, and explosions. Many Tennessee employers offer workers’ compensation benefits. Yet, just because you request workers’ compensation based on your concussion or contusion does not mean you will receive these benefits. Legal help is available for Tennessee workers’ compensation claims.
Slip and fall accidents
If you slip, fall, and hit your head during a visit to someone else’s property, the property owner may be liable. Pursuing a slip and fall claim can help you recover damages for your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other losses from a negligent property owner.
There is a lot to consider relative to concussions and contusions. Treatment is paramount for either of these injuries. If you try to ignore your injury symptoms, these issues may only get worse. Thankfully, doctors can help you treat your symptoms before they escalate.
With concussions, contusions, and other injuries caused by negligent parties, you have the right to take legal action. Doing so can help you receive compensation that helps you stay afloat financially as you recover from your injuries.
If you are considering legal action based on a concussion or contusion, discuss your case with a Nashville personal injury lawyer. Share any legal concerns or questions you have with your attorney.
Hire a Nashville brain injury attorney who is ready to fight for you
Rocky McElhaney Law Firm: Car Accident & Injury Lawyers has recovered more than $250 million in compensatory damages for injury victims. Our attorneys fight for injury victims like you every day. To schedule a consultation, contact us today. You can find us located in Nashville, Hendersonville, Clarksville, and Murfreesboro.