How Can I Recover From a Concussion?

If you have suffered from a concussion as a result of a workplace accident, you know that you probably need to take time off from work to recover. Concussions are a mild type of traumatic brain injury (TBI), which means that you are probably suffering from more cognitive symptoms, like difficulty paying attention to tasks at hand and confusion, than physical symptoms. However, you might also be facing some mild physical symptoms like nausea and an irregular sleep pattern. All of these symptoms can make it difficult or impossible to perform your job.

But there is no quick, easy way to heal a concussion. Unlike a broken bone, which can be put into a cast or a burn, which can be treated with compresses and medication, a concussion simply requires rest to heal.

You know that taking time away from work to recover is important. But you need to take it easy at home as well. Do not use your recovery time to do mentally strenuous work, like home-improvement projects or trying new hobbies. Even fairly passive activities, like reading and playing video games, can trigger symptoms like nausea and dizziness. Give yourself time to reach a point where you feel ready to take on more mentally and physically taxing tasks and discuss your progress with your doctor. He or she can advise you on your progress as you recover.

In some individuals, substances like nicotine, alcohol, and caffeine make concussion symptoms worse. It is recommended that you completely abstain from alcohol during the recovery period because it can be easier for an individual with a TBI to develop a dependency on the substance. Focus on eating a healthy diet and consuming an adequate amount of water during your recovery.

This goes along with the recommendation that you take it easy during your recovery. Having a concussion makes it more difficult to complete even simple tasks, so give yourself time and do not get angry or frustrated with yourself if you lose focus or cannot complete a task. You will likely have good days, where you notice few, if any symptoms, as well as bad days, where you feel like you have not made any progress. This is normal – accept that you are recovering from an injury and that you need time to completely heal.

When you are suffering from a concussion or any other injury as a result of an accident that occurred in the workplace, work with an experienced San Jose workplace accident attorney who can help you get the monetary compensation you deserve. Concussions might seem minor, but can cause you to suffer significant financial damages. At Corsiglia, McMahon, & Allard, L.L.P., we can help you get the money you deserve. We proudly serve clients throughout the Bay Area, San Mateo County, Alameda County, San Benito County, Monterey County, and Santa Clara County.

• Concussion (Traumatic Brain Injury)
• Substance Use and TBI: A SynapShot from OVC