Recognizing Traumatic Brain Injury
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When you’ve been involved in an accident or a slip and fall, you can sustain any number of serious injuries. One of the most serious injuries that are caused by car accidents and falls is a traumatic brain injury. You should always seek medical attention immediately following your accident, and a doctor should be able to determine if you have a head injury. However, there are some signs and symptoms you should be aware of.
What is a Traumatic Brain Injury?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), a traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a disruption in the normal function of the brain caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head or a penetrating injury. Everyone is at risk for TBI, especially children,and older people. TBIs are frequently caused by falls and car accidents. It is a serious public health concern that results in the death or injury of thousands of people every year.
Signs and Symptoms
Traumatic brain injury can have a wide range of symptoms, both physical and psychological. Some physical symptoms include:
- Loss of consciousness for a few minutes or a few seconds
- A state of being dazed, disoriented, or confused—loss of consciousness not necessary
- Nausea or vomiting
- Persistent headache or a headache that worsens over time
- Drowsiness or fatigue
- Problems speaking
- Difficulty sleeping or sleeping more than usual
- Loss of balance or dizziness
- Convulsions or seizures
- Pupil dilation
- Clear liquid draining from the ear or nose
- Numbness in the extremities
In some cases, a traumatic brain injury can cause psychological or sensory symptoms as well. These symptoms include:
- Sensitivity to light or sound
- Sensory problems—for example blurred vision, bad taste in the mouth, ringing in the ears, or sensitivity to smells
- Memory or concentration problems
- Feeling depressed or anxious
- Changes in mood or experiencing mood swings
- Profound confusion
- Agitation and combativeness
- Slurred speech
If you experience any of these symptoms after your accident, it is crucial that you seek medical attention right away. A TBI requires prompt attention and immediate diagnosis.
Contact an Experienced Personal Injury Attorney
If you’ve sustained a traumatic brain injury as the result of someone’s negligence, you may want to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney. The traumatic brain injury lawyers at Abrahamson & Uiterwyk, have been helping victims for over 30 years. Contact us online or call us at 800-538-4878 to set up your free consultation today.