Concussions From Slips and Falls

Concussions don’t just happen to professional football players out on the gridiron. They can happen to anyone, and they can potentially be deadly. Someone who has suffered a concussion needs to be monitored by medical professionals. Slips and falls are a common cause of concussions. When your feet slip out from underneath you, your head may be the first thing to hit the ground.

Signs and Symptoms

The symptoms of a concussion can be subtle or extremely overt. They can occur almost immediately after a fall or sometimes they can be delayed hours, or even days. Some of the more subtle symptoms may include a feeling of pressure in the head, changes in taste or smell, sensitivity to light and noise, or ringing in the ears. A headache is the most common easily observed symptom, but this can be accompanied by loss of consciousness, vomiting, nausea, fatigue, and confusion. Symptoms which take time to develop are more complicated and may include depression, irritability, sleep disturbance, and amnesia.

When to Seek Emergency Care

The severity of concussions varies widely. Some concussions can be minor, while others could be potentially life threatening. The Mayo Clinic suggests seeking immediate emergency care for individuals experiencing the following symptoms: repeated vomiting, loss of consciousness, slurred speech, stumbling or clumsiness, severe confusion, or changes in behavior. It is always best to err on the side of caution when it comes to concussions. Don’t wait, be proactive. If you experience potential symptoms, seek medical attention.

The Danger of Multiple Concussions

In a story that is drawing increasingly more and more attention, concussions are increasingly dangerous when experienced multiple times. It is possible that having a previous concussion can make you even more likely to experience another. Individuals who have experienced multiple concussions over their lifetime are at risk for long lasting, even permanent impairments.