We all take bumps and bruises from time to time, but when a head injury is involved, even minor mishaps can have serious consequences. Concussions and other head injuries can happen to anyone, from children to seniors, often due to slips, falls, sports accidents, or even simple bumps. At Taylorville Family Medicine’s Bear Creek Sick Clinic, we’re here to help our current patients recognize the signs of a concussion and get the care they need—without needing an appointment.
Common Causes of Head Injuries
Head injuries occur in a variety of everyday situations. Here are a few examples where bumps to the head are most likely:
Falls: Slipping on ice, tripping, or losing balance can lead to a hard fall and a bump on the head.
Sports Accidents: Contact sports like football, soccer, and basketball often carry a higher risk for concussions.
Vehicle Accidents: Even low-speed collisions can result in a jolt to the head.
Household Mishaps: Accidents like walking into a low-hanging cabinet door or bumping your head during a home project are also common sources.
No matter how a head injury occurs, recognizing potential concussion symptoms is essential.
Concussion Symptoms: What to Watch For
Concussions can present a range of symptoms that may appear immediately or take hours, or even days, to surface. Here are some signs to be aware of following any kind of head impact:
- Headache or pressure in the head
- Dizziness or balance issues
- Confusion or difficulty remembering events before or after the injury
- Sensitivity to light or noise
- Nausea or vomiting
- Blurred or double vision
- Feeling dazed or “foggy”
For children and those unable to communicate symptoms, watch for signs like irritability, changes in eating or sleeping habits, or appearing less playful.
What You Should Do
If you or a loved one experiences any of these symptoms, it’s important to take it seriously. Here are the recommended steps following a head injury:
Rest and Observe: Avoid physical activities, and get plenty of rest to support recovery.
Limit Stimulation: Reduce exposure to screens, bright lights, and loud environments, as they can worsen symptoms.
Monitor Symptoms: Symptoms like persistent headaches, confusion, or vomiting should not be ignored.
When to Visit Bear Creek Sick Clinic (or the Emergency Room)
If symptoms are mild but concerning, or if they persist beyond a few hours, consider visiting Bear Creek Sick Clinic for an evaluation. As current patients, we have access to your full medical history, which allows us to provide the most informed care possible. You’re welcome to walk in at any time—no appointment necessary—and let our team assess the severity of the injury.
However, for serious injuries, go to the nearest emergency room if you notice:
- Severe headache that worsens
- Loss of consciousness
- Slurred speech or confusion
- Seizures
- Weakness or numbness in limbs
These symptoms could indicate a more serious injury requiring immediate attention.
At Bear Creek Sick Clinic, we understand that even minor head injuries are stressful. Our team offers walk-in care and leverages your complete medical history to make the most accurate assessment possible. If you or your child has had a head injury and you’re uncertain about the next step, come by the clinic. If it appears to be a serious injury, go to the nearest emergency room available, immediately.
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