Proper Concussion Care After Suffering Accidental Injuries in Alaska

 

If you were involved in a minor fender bender, slip and fall, or other personal injury accident, you probably assume that a slight bump on the head is no big deal. What you may not realize is that a concussion can be quite serious, and is actually defined as a type of traumatic brain injury (TBI) by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Any blow or jolt to the head that leads to a disruption in the normal functioning of the brain is considered a TBI, which contributes to around 56,800 deaths and 288,000 hospitalizations every year.

Now that you can appreciate the severity of a concussion, you can understand why proper concussion care after an accident protects your health. However, it is also important to know how your actions could affect your legal rights. AnAlaska serious physical injury lawyer can explain the details, but some tips may also be useful.

 

Seek Immediate Medical Care

If your concussion led to a loss of consciousness, slurred speech, vomiting, or other major health concerns, immediately head to a local emergency room. For lesser trauma, visit an urgent care center for same-day treatment. It is important to get proper medical attention right away so physicians can assess your concussion and determine necessary treatment. Plus, any delays in seeking care tells an insurance adjuster that your injuries were not severe.

 

Follow Up With Your Primary Care Physician

After receiving emergency or urgent care, you should make an appointment with your primary care physician (“PCP”). Your doctor should have your full medical records, so he or she can evaluate whether any specialized treatment for concussion is necessary based upon your medical history.

 

Monitor Your Symptoms

Your PCP will provide details on how to identify the signs of worsening trauma and what to do if issues develop. However, you should keep a close eye on symptoms in four specific areas described by the CDC:

  • Difficulties with concentration or remembering information;
  • Physical, including headaches, sensitivity to light, and sluggishness;
  • Emotional or mood-related, such as angry outbursts, depression, or irritability; and,
  • Sleep, either getting more or less – or experiencing unusual sleep patterns.

 

Stick to Doctor’s Orders

Again, there are obvious health benefits of adhering to your physician’s instructions for at-home care. Your condition could deteriorate after suffering concussion, possibly leading to permanent brain damage and long-term complications. Following doctor’s orders also demonstrates that you are serious about getting back to health, improving your position when you seek compensation for your losses. Insurance adjusters are more likely to view your claim as credible.

 

Set Up a Free Consultation with an Anchorage, AK Personal Injury Attorney

Following these tips will ensure you heal and recover from a concussion promptly, but taking these steps also supports your rights. Insurance companies often deny claims filed by victims who do not prioritize their own health, so you could miss out on an opportunity to recover compensation. For more information on your remedies, please contact Power & Power Law to schedule a free consultation today.