A car accident can cause a concussion, which is medically defined as a mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI). This injury involves a temporary disruption of normal brain function. A concussion does not necessarily involve structural damage to the brain tissue, but rather a chemical and metabolic change that affects how brain cells communicate. The resulting symptoms are a consequence of this functional disturbance and can range from subtle to severe.
The Mechanism of Injury in Vehicle Collisions
The forces generated during a car accident can cause a concussion, even without the head directly striking an object. This injury centers on the brain’s rapid acceleration and subsequent deceleration within the skull. When a vehicle stops abruptly, the body is thrown forward and snapped back, an action commonly known as whiplash.
This sudden movement causes the brain, which is suspended in cerebrospinal fluid, to collide with the rigid inner walls of the skull. The initial impact is termed the “coup,” and the rebound impact on the opposite side is the “contrecoup.” This movement stretches nerve fibers and disrupts the chemical balance necessary for normal brain cell function.
The sheer force of the rapid head movement, especially rotational forces, can trigger a concussion. This explains why even low-speed collisions can generate sufficient force to cause a mild traumatic brain injury. Direct impact, such as hitting the steering wheel or a window, is not a prerequisite for a concussion in a car crash.
Recognizing the Signs of a Concussion
Recognizing the signs of a concussion after a car accident is important because symptoms may be delayed for hours or even days. Symptoms are typically categorized into physical, cognitive, and emotional/sleep disturbances.
Physical Symptoms
Physical symptoms often include a headache or a feeling of pressure in the head. Nausea, dizziness, and problems with balance are also common. Many people report a heightened sensitivity to light or noise, along with blurred or double vision.
Cognitive Symptoms
Cognitive signs involve changes in thinking and concentration, such as feeling “foggy” or confused. Difficulties with memory and a reduced ability to focus or process information are frequently reported. A person may also appear dazed, slow to respond to questions, or have slurred speech.
Emotional and Sleep Disturbances
Emotional and sleep-related effects include changes in mood, such as irritability, anxiety, or sadness. Sleep patterns can be disrupted, with some individuals sleeping much more than usual while others experience insomnia. These behavioral changes signal a functional brain injury.
Immediate Medical Steps and Diagnosis
Seeking medical evaluation immediately after a car accident is necessary, even if symptoms have not yet appeared. The body’s release of adrenaline following a traumatic event can mask pain and neurological symptoms, delaying their onset. Early medical assessment is necessary to rule out severe, life-threatening injuries like internal bleeding or structural damage.
Diagnosis begins with a thorough neurological examination and an assessment of your symptoms, including questions about the injury mechanism. Doctors evaluate mental status, balance, coordination, and reflexes through various cognitive tests. Standard imaging tests, such as a CT scan or MRI, are often performed. These scans are used primarily to ensure there is no structural injury, like a hematoma or hemorrhage, that requires immediate intervention.
Immediate management focuses on both physical and cognitive rest to allow the brain to recover from metabolic changes. This means temporarily avoiding strenuous physical activity and limiting activities that require intense focus, such as computer work or screen time. A healthcare professional will provide a plan for monitoring symptoms and a gradual return to normal activities.