Concussion Treatments Are in High Demand From Athletes and Veterans

By Peter DePaolis
Attorney

Researchers Continue to Search for Answers to Help Concussion Victims

Three years ago, a patient of Dr. Paul G. Harch, a doctor who researches concussion treatments, had suffered a concussion from a simple fall where she had hit her head. The result of that one fall was unshakeable headaches, swings in mood and trouble concentrating. That is, until Dr. Paul G. Harch had her undergo a new treatment that involves breathing high concentrations of oxygen several times a week. After 40 treatments, the patient reported that her symptoms had subsided successfully.

The success of Dr. Harch’s patient does not give many frustrated researchers hope, however. According to numerous studies done on the oxygen treatment, it appears that Harch’s patient’s success may be no more than a placebo effect that proves unsuccessful for most patients. However, that has not stopped this treatment and other concussion treatments from growing rapidly. It appears an industry is rising out of increased demand despite the lack of solid results to back it up.

At this point, there are several different ongoing studies on concussions, which are considered mild traumatic brain injuries, and how to treat or prevent them. Researchers have developed mouth guards that detect sudden head movements, like when a football player is tackled. These mouth guards are supposed to warn coaches of the potential for an impending concussion in players, but the reports are so imprecise that they have yet to be proven useful. Still, many university football teams have adopted the use of these mouth guards, which cost about $200 per player.

How Do I Know If I Have One?

Early detection of a concussion is important in reducing long-term consequences. If you have sustained a head injury, it may be a concussion. Some of the signs include:

  • Dizziness
  • Loss of consciousness briefly after the trauma to the head
  • Feeling fatigued or drowsy
  • Blurred or double vision
  • Headaches
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • General confusion
  • Problems with memory

If you have any of these symptoms after hitting your head, whether in a car accident, a fall or during a football game, consult with a doctor as soon as possible.

Talk to a Maryland Personal Injury Attorney About Legal Action After a Concussion

Some concussions are not just the result of an accident, but are also the result of someone else’s negligence. If you or a loved one suffered a concussion, you may now be dealing with a multitude of physical and mental complications as well as medical bills and lost income. If the concussion was caused because of the negligence of another person or entity, you could be entitled to compensation. A knowledgeable Maryland personal injury attorney may be helpful to those who have suffered a concussion. Contact our law firm today!

About the Author
Peter DePaolis joined the firm in 1980 and has since represented a large number of individuals involved in automobile collisions, truck accidents, bus crashes, defective products, and medical malpractice cases. A significant portion of Mr. DePaolis’ practice is devoted to working on behalf of people suffering from asbestosis, mesothelioma, and other asbestos-related cancers. He has led his firm’s fight against the asbestos industry and has recovered over $30 million in damages for asbestos victims and their families.