Concussions are a common but serious type of traumatic brain injury (TBI) that can disrupt normal brain function and open the door to a number of acute and persistent symptoms. One of the most troubling is memory loss, which can range from brief lapses to severe cognitive challenges that affect daily life.
Understanding the connection between concussions and memory loss is important, especially if the injury resulted from an accident that happened due to someone else’s negligent behavior.
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What Is a Concussion, and What Are the Potential Symptoms?
A concussion occurs when a sudden impact or jolt to the head causes the brain to move around rapidly inside the skull.
The movement can damage brain cells and disrupt chemical pathways, leading to a number of different symptoms that might include:
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Balance issues
- Nausea
- Confusion
- Sensitivity to light and noise
- Memory loss
- Double or blurry vision
- Trouble concentrating
- Restlessness or agitation
If the concussion is especially serious, the victim might also experience:
- Loss of consciousness
- Seizures
- Convulsions
- Slurred speech
- Weakness or numbness
- Loss of coordination
- Persistent fatigue
- Enlarged pupil on one side
Memory loss is one of the more distressing symptoms of a concussion, especially if the injury didn’t seem to be that bad initially. Losing your memory can negatively impact your relationships, career, and daily activities.
Concussions can occur in various scenarios, such as car crashes, falls, sports activities, and workplace accidents. Many concussions are mild and heal quickly. However, others can have long-term complications, particularly if they go untreated or the victim suffers multiple concussions over time.
How Do Concussions Affect Memory?
Memory loss linked to a concussion typically falls into one of two categories:
- Retrograde Amnesia: Affects memories formed prior to the brain injury, leading to trouble recalling what happened in the moments, hours, or days beforehand
- Anterograde Amnesia: Impacts the ability to form new memories after the accident; victims might struggle to remember conversations and other events after they happen
Both forms of memory loss can range in degree and effect — it depends largely on the force of the impact and the affected individual’s overall health.
Why Does Memory Loss Happen After a Concussion?
Memory loss is a common outcome of concussions because the regions of the brain responsible for storing and retrieving memories are especially vulnerable during traumatic events. When the brain is impacted or shaken, the sudden movement can damage neural connections that are needed for recall.
Similarly, swelling can impair brain function by compressing those same areas. A concussion can also disrupt the brain’s neurochemistry, making it harder for the victim to process and retain information. Secondary factors after the injury, such as emotional distress, fatigue, and chronic headaches, can further disrupt a person’s memory to create a cycle of cognitive difficulties.
How Do I Recognize the Signs of Memory Loss?
Memory loss isn’t always immediately noticeable after a concussion. In fact, the symptoms can be completely absent at first and only appear later, gradually getting worse over time.
If you’ve recently experienced a concussion, be on the lookout for the following warning signs:
- Trouble recalling recent events or conversations
- Misplacing items more often than usual
- Struggling to concentrate or perform simple tasks
- Repeating questions or statements without realizing it
- Feeling disoriented or confused in familiar settings
These symptoms can affect daily tasks and professional responsibilities, especially in high-paced environments. If you notice any of these symptoms after hitting your head, see a doctor immediately.
Treating Memory Loss After a Concussion
Treatment for memory loss starts with addressing the concussion itself. Doctors often recommend doing certain things at home to give your brain a chance to heal itself.
Getting adequate physical and mental rest is perhaps the most important thing you can do. This means avoiding strenuous activities, limiting screen time, and taking breaks throughout the day. Working with a neurologist or cognitive therapist can also help improve your memory function. Therapy might involve memory exercises, organization tips, and tools to aid recall.
In some cases, doctors may prescribe medication to help manage symptoms like headaches, depression, or anxiety, all of which can directly impact memory. Additionally, a balanced diet, regular light exercise, and adequate sleep are vital for brain health and can help those who have experienced concussions recover more quickly.
What Is Post-Concussion Syndrome?
For some people, memory loss may persist well beyond the typical recovery period of a concussion. This condition, known as post-concussion syndrome (PCS), involves prolonged symptoms such as chronic headaches, ongoing memory difficulties, sensitivity to light and sound, and emotional disturbances like anxiety and depression.
PCS can last for months or even years and can seriously affect a person’s ability to work, maintain relationships, and enjoy their daily lives. In places like Baltimore, where it’s common for people to have active professional and social lives, the long-term impacts of PCS can be particularly bothersome.
What Are the Long-Term Impacts of Memory Loss After a Concussion?
Besides PCS, memory loss can have a ripple effect on nearly every aspect of a person’s life. For those who rely on their cognitive abilities for work (in industries like healthcare, education, and business, for example), being unable to remember certain details or retain new information could lead to job termination or fewer career prospects.
On a personal level, memory loss can strain relationships. Forgetting important events, repeating conversations, and appearing disengaged because of cognitive struggles can frustrate loved ones who don’t fully understand the nature and extent of the injury.
Financially, the costs of ongoing treatment, therapy, and lost income can add up quickly. This is why it’s so important for a concussion victim to file a personal injury claim if their injury was the result of another person’s negligence.
How a Maryland Personal Injury Attorney Can Protect Your Rights After Suffering a Concussion
If you’ve suffered a concussion and are now experiencing memory loss, it’s important to know your rights under Maryland law.
Personal injury lawyers who handle brain injury cases can help accident victims secure compensation for the following types of losses:
- Medical costs (hospital visits, therapy, medication, etc.)
- Lost wages (both short- and long-term)
- Pain and suffering (physical, emotional, and cognitive)
- Future care needs (ongoing treatment and rehab)
With dependable legal counsel, you can focus on your recovery while also making sure those responsible for your injury are held accountable.
That said, Maryland has a strict statute of limitations for personal injury lawsuits. You generally have three years from the date of your concussion injury (with some exceptions) to file your case. Waiting too long can jeopardize your ability to recover compensation.
Contact Our Baltimore Concussion Injury Lawyers For Legal Help
At WGK Personal Injury Lawyers, we understand the challenges of living with memory loss after a concussion. If you need legal assistance, don’t hesitate to contact us at (410) 837-2144 and schedule a free consultation with our compassionate Baltimore personal injury attorneys. Let us take the legal burden off your shoulders so that you can focus on moving forward with your life.
