Post-concussion syndrome is typically associated with a head injury and may be categorized as a concussion or a mild traumatic brain injury. In general terms, post-concussion syndrome, or PCS, is a medical problem that persists for a period of time after a head injury has occurred. Often, related symptoms resolve within about three months. Unfortunately, for some these symptoms can last for a year or even longer.

What Causes Post-Concussion Syndrome?

There is no exact knowledge for why Post-Concussion Syndrome occurs. However, many medical experts believe it arises from structural damage to the brain or the neurotransmitter symptom being disrupted. Another theory is that PCS symptoms arise from psychological factors. This theory stems from the fact that its symptoms are similar those of anxiety, depression, and PTSD.

Symptoms And Treatment

Those suffering PCS often experience headaches, fatigue, sensitivity to noise and light, insomnia, loss of memory, and dizziness. In addition, its persistence can be draining. Furthermore, those suffering with this injury often experience difficulty with day to day living or be be unable to perform their job. Women, older individuals, and those involved in a traumatic incident – such as a vehicle collision, a fall or a sport-related injury have the highest risk of developing post-concussion syndrome.

A medical professional will assist in developing the recovery plan specific to your needs. Therefore, those experiencing PCS symptoms should visit their doctor.

Contact Johnson Law

Johnson Law is dedicated Alaska and utilizes over 30 years of collective experience to find solutions for accident and injury victims, including those experiencing PCS. Johnson Law knows Alaska and Alaska Law. Find out how we can help. Call Johnson Law at  (907)277-3090 or use our Contact Form to discuss your motor vehicle crash injury case. We are here to serve you.

Johnson Law has been serving families with serious injury and accident claims – including PCS- for 30 years. It’s who we are. And while we hope you never need us… We’re here if you do. ~ Doug Johnson

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Concussions occur when the brain hits the inside of the skull. This mild Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), is caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head or body that causes the head and brain to move rapidly back and forth. The severity of the cranial trauma and symptoms can vary widely between brain injuries. Impact with another vehicle or object, such as an airbag, can cause the brain to hit the inside of the skull. Victims may lose consciousness upon impact but loss of consciousness is not necessary for a concussion.

Signs Of Concussion

Concussions are often undiagnosed because people are unaware of symptoms. Keep in mind that signs and symptoms may not show up right away – they may take hours or days to be noticed following the head injury. Signs of a concussion can include headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, blurred vision, confusion, and difficulty concentrating. 

More serious signs of concussion include loss of consciousness, seizures, and changes in behavior or alertness. If any of these signs are present after a head injury, it’s crucial to seek medical attention immediately. 

If you think you may have suffered a concussion or other head injury after an automobile accident and are experiencing symptoms, consult your doctor. Medical exams help determine the severity of a brain injury and communication with your doctor is key for proper diagnosis.

Johnson Law has been helping Alaska Car Accident victims with concussion brain injuries for nearly 30 years. It’s who we are. Call Johnson Law at  (907)277-3090 or use our Contact Form to discuss your serious injury case. We are here to serve you.

And while we hope you never need us… We’re here if you do. ~ Doug Johnson

Sources: Alaska Mental Health Trust Authority: Concussion Guidebook, Centers for Disease Control

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Acquired Brain Injury

An acquired brain injury (ABI) is an injury to the brain that is not hereditary, congenital, degenerative, or induced by birth trauma. Essentially, this type of brain injury is one that has occurred after birth. 

Non-Traumatic

Non-traumatic brain injuries occur due to changes in brain function. Incidents may induce these kinds of injuries such as stroke, seizure, electric shock or drug overdose, but are not always.

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)

TBIs occur when an external force is exerted on the brain. Events like falls, assaults, gunshot wounds or car accidents may result in a traumatic brain injury. Over half of TBIs result from car crashes due to the force taking place. The speed of the vehicle in a crash combined with the collision causes the brain to collide with the interior of the skull. In an event like this, the collision may leave a bruise on the brain beyond the initial impact. Additionally, blunt trauma in a crash may result in a TBI because the person hit their head, on the windshield or steering wheel.

The seriousness of brain injuries ranges from minor to severe depending on the incident. A TBI can also occur without losing consciousness. Signs of a TBI may not be immediately noticeable.

If you are in a car accident and hit your head, make sure you see a medical professional and rule out a TBI. If you see signs after the accident, like dizziness, balance problems, headaches or confusion, seek immediate medical attention.

Wrongful death claims are particularly sensitive cases and deserve equally sensitive representation. Please call Johnson Law to discuss your loss: (907)277-3090 or use our online contact form.

Johnson Law has been helping Alaskans for nearly 30 years. It’s who we are.

And while we hope you never need us… We’re here if you do. ~ Doug Johnson

Source: Brain Injury Association

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Tips For A Safer Spring Weather Driving

Driving in Spring has challenges and one needs to take precautions no matter where you live. However, if you are prepared, drive safely, and have the right tools, navigating Alaska roads while driving in Spring can be safer and more enjoyable:

• Seatbelts – fashionable in all seasons and go with every outfit
• Sun safety on those morning and afternoon commutes is a must
• Make sure to share the roads with the ATVs and motorcycles navigating Spring Weather Hazards
• Construction season will be here so be aware and alert while traveling in these areas
• Big truck traffic increases Spring Weather Hazards while bringing more goods and services to Alaska
• Extra sun requires sleep adjustments – be sure you are well-rested before getting behind the wheel

Traumatic Brain Injuries And Motor Vehicle Accidents

March is also Brain Injury Awareness Month. Every March, the Brain Injury Association of America leads the nation in observing Brain Injury Awareness Month. Spring weather hazards bring the risk of motor vehicle accidents.

Traumatic Brain Injuries: Adult occupants were 47.0% of all motor vehicle–related TBI visits and 9.7% of all TBI visits. Child occupants represented 54.4% of the motor vehicle crash–related TBI ED visits.

Traumatic Brain Injury Deaths: Adult vehicle occupants were 45.8% of all motor vehicle–related TBI deaths and 13.2% of all TBI deaths. On average, there were 488 child TBI deaths in motor vehicle crashes, accounting for 21.8% of all TBI-related deaths.

Vehicle Maintenance

Make sure to take care of the vehicle that gets you to and from all the beauty Alaska has to offer through Alaska’s Spring weather hazards. As you adjust and welcome the season, be aware and prepared. Take care of yourself and others while driving. Make safe driving in Alaska during Spring, Summer, Fall and Winter weather a priority.

Johnson Law has been helping Alaskans for nearly 30 years. It’s who we are.

And while we hope you never need us… We’re here if you do. ~ Doug Johnson

Please call Johnson Law to discuss your case: (907)277-3090 or use our online contact form.

Sources: Alaska Online Defensive Driving; Brain Injury Association of America; Center For Disease Control; National Library Of Medicine

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