A concussion is a traumatic brain injury (TBI) that can change how your brain functions.
Two of the most common symptoms, after you’ve suffered a concussion, are headaches and light sensitivity. Generally, these symptoms go away in a week or so, but for some people, they can linger for weeks or even months.
Headaches After A Concussion in a Car Accident
If you are suffering headaches after a concussion, there are a few things you can do to help manage the headaches:
- Get plenty of rest, preferably in a cool, dark, and quiet room.
- You may find some relief from a post-concussion headache if you put ice on your head while you’re resting.
- Drink lots of water.
- Eat regularly.
- Get enough sleep.
- Manage or decrease your stress level.
- In some cases, your doctor may prescribe triptan, which is a migraine medication for post-concussion headaches that are not relieved by using acetaminophen, ibuprofen or other over-the-counter medications.
- Supplements such as magnesium, omega-3 fatty acids, and/or riboflavin was taken daily may help reduce the frequency and severity of your post-concussion headaches.
- In addition to any medication you’re taking for your headaches, you may also want to try massage therapy, acupuncture, physical therapy, or biofeedback.
In addition to the above, it’s also important to try to avoid suffering another concussion because it can make the post-concussion symptoms worse, especially if your second concussion occurs shortly after the first one.
Light Sensitivity After A Concussion Caused By A Car Accident
Some experts believe that up to 43% of people who have suffered a concussion suffer from light sensitivity or photophobia. Iif you’re a military veteran that has experienced a blast-related concussion, you are more at-risk for post-concussion light sensitivity.
Some of the most common symptoms of light sensitivity are:
- Vision fatigue,
- Squinting,
- Eye strain,
- Eye pain,
- Headaches, or
- Inability to tolerate bright light, especially fluorescent lights.
The results of light sensitivity studies after a concussion have shown that the symptoms are most prevalent between 7-14 days after suffering the head injury and can last up to 6 months or more.
Types of Light that Worsen Light Sensitivity Symptoms
Researchers have discovered that fluorescent lights and sunlight exposes you to a large amount of “blue light.” Blue light can be the most painful if you are suffering from light sensitivity and can make some of your post-concussion symptoms worse. Other sources of blue light include computer monitors, smart phones, and gaming consoles.
Fluorescent lights may also be problematic for you. They may increase your headaches, migraines, and other pain. Fluorescent lights may also make post-concussion symptoms like dizziness, nausea, and/or sensitivity to movement worse.
Treatment for Light Sensitivity
While there are not any medications that improve the symptoms of light sensitivity, there are things you can do to help you manage the symptoms.
- Wear polarized sunglasses outside.
- Wear a hat outside or even inside if the lights are bright.
- Restrict your computer or smartphone use. If you do need to use your computer or smartphone, purchase anti-glare monitor covers, or install a blue light appthat reduces your exposure to blue light.
- Rest and relax.
In addition, the American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends that you use special
glasses tinted with FL-41, such as TheraSpecs. These types of glasses are made to target blue light as well as brightness, glare, and the invisible flicker fluorescent lights give off.
If you are suffering headaches, light sensitivity, or other post-concussive symptoms following a concussion or other traumatic brain injury, then South Carolina attorney David R. Price, Jr. strongly encourages you to seek medical treatment for your symptoms so you can heal properly and move forward with your life.
In addition, if you are injured because of the negligence of another person, whether it was in a car wreck or other accident, it is important that you address your legal case as quickly as possible. Contact the attorneys at David R. Price, Jr., P.A., today for a free consultation.
