Anyone who’s ever played or watched football has a good idea of what a concussion looks like. While male athletes tend to get most of the attention, rates of concussion among female athletes have actually tripled over the last two decades.
Although we usually associate it with car accidents, sports can also lead to whiplash injuries as well. Both injuries can cause long-term problems if they’re not properly treated.
Let’s look at whiplash vs concussion and see how you can get to the bottom of your pain.
What Is Whiplash?
Whiplash injuries occur when the body is subjected to an impact of huge force. This is why they are so common after car accidents. You can also sustain this injury during contact sports.
Signs of whiplash include:
- Pain or stiffness in the neck
- Headaches
- Shoulder pain
- Numbness in the arm/hand
- Dizziness
- Lower back pain
- Concentration difficulties
- Problems with sleep
Some of these issues take time to develop. That’s why it’s so important to see a doctor as soon as your injury occurs – even if you don’t think you’ve been injured. They will order tests such as MRIs and CT scans to uncover the extent of your injuries.
What Is a Concussion?
A concussion is the most common type of traumatic brain injury. Some of the causes of a concussion include a bump or blow to the head. A severe body impact can also cause the brain to move rapidly back and forth in the skull.
The symptoms of a concussion include:
- Headaches or pressure in the head
- Nausea
- Balance issues
- Feeling sluggish or foggy
- Memory and concentration issues
Others may notice right after an impact that the person appears dazed, can’t follow instructions, and moves in a clumsy manner.
Types of Concussions
There are three grades of concussions. Grade 1 is mild and symptoms last for less than 15 minutes, with no loss of consciousness. Grade 2 is moderate, lasting longer than 15 minutes but also involving no loss of consciousness.
Grade 3 is severe. The length is irrelevant, but the person loses consciousness.
Concussion Treatment
Seek medical advice after a concussion resulting from a car accident or sports impact. Your doctor will advise you about medications that can help you to deal with the symptoms and how long it will take to heal.
Whiplash vs Concussion – What’s the Difference?
The cause of whiplash and concussion is often similar – a huge impact. But the symptoms are quite different. It’s possible to get both whiplash and a concussion from the same car accident.
Wearing seatbelts and protective headgear is key to preventing traumatic brain injuries. If you’re ever involved in a car accident, don’t assume you’ve got away with it. Get yourself thoroughly checked out as soon as possible.
It’s possible that you won’t feel any pain right away. The symptoms may come on over the next few days. A thorough physical immediately after the accident can help you prepare for what’s to come and make a successful recovery.
The Final Word: Always Seek Medical Help
When you compare whiplash vs concussion, there are several differences. Whiplash symptoms are mainly felt in the body, whereas concussion symptoms are felt in the head. Headaches are the main overlapping symptom.
Make sure you set yourself up for a full recovery by always seeking medical help after any impact or car accident.
If you’d like more helpful hints and tips, head over to our Health section today!
