According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), auto accidents cause most brain injuries in the United States. Individuals who have been involved in a motor vehicle collision (MVC), and are hurting from headaches may be experiencing a Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI).
TBI is a severe blow or jolt to the head causing a disturbance in major functions of the brain. MVC victims who have suffered from trauma to the head during auto accidents often experience long term medical and cognitive issues. A headache is the most common symptom of damage TBI.
Headaches frequently occur after an MVC. Some MVC victims start getting headaches immediately after the collision, others may not get them until after a few days, weeks, or months. Individuals experience headaches of varying character, onset, duration and location.
Headaches can cause a significant health burden with direct impact on the quality of life of MVC victims, altering their relationships, work attendance and efficiency, and their capacity to plan for their future. The International Headache Society (IHS) categorizes headaches into primary and secondary.
Primary headaches are diagnosed and treated conservatively. Secondary require immediate intervention. Such headaches often have a more immediate threat of mortality or higher morbidity.
Post-traumatic headaches resulting from MVCs are secondary headaches that can be caused by factors such as an acceleration/deceleration injury, and that often occur with other whiplash-related symptomatology.
There are numerous reasons why headaches may arise after an injury. Sometimes the source is not always obvious and can continue for months or years for no distinct medical reason. The assessment of a MVC claim, and particularly one based on headaches, can be difficult to determine. There are several factors involved.
The consequences of the MVC may include all medical expenses ensuing from the collision, loss of income subsequent from the headaches, pain and suffering caused by injuries, and loss of enjoyment of life. Headaches will wear the MVC victim down mentally and emotionally.
If you find this newsletter helpful, please share it with colleagues, or direct them to our website.