Vehicle collisions are a common causes of traumatic brain injury (TBI). The high speed and sudden decelerations associated with car accidents can lead to brain injuries even when no external damage is present or visible. Since the signs of a TBI may not present themselves for some time, it is essential for those motorists or pedestrians involved in an accident to understand the potential signs of a brain injury. Here are three common symptoms:
- Cognitive symptoms: Changes in emotional stability could be a hallmark of a TBI, as well as memory and concentration issues. A more serious TBI could mean the injured person will exhibit slurred speech, cognitive disorders, unusual behavior or the onset of a coma.
- Physical symptoms: For more mild TBIs, the symptoms can be challenging to diagnose, with some signs having the potential to be mistaken for other ailments. A mild TBI could include fatigue, drowsiness, nausea, sleep issues, speech difficulty, headaches and disorientation. A more moderate or severe case could involve the loss of consciousness, seizures, coordination loss and severe headaches.
- Sensory symptoms: Those with a head injury may find that they may be overly sensitive to light or sounds. They may also find that they experience phantom senses like tastes, ringing in their ears, vision blurriness or reduced ability to smell.
Dealing with TBI treatment
The brain is such a complex system that rehabilitation is still limited. A diagnosed TBI may mean years of recovery and various degrees of rehabilitation success. The years of treatment, combined with the potential for lost wages from reduced ability to work, could mean that those with head injuries may have a long and financially draining recovery. Those with TBI need to seek out the options available for adequate compensation.
