Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) are serious, complex injuries that can have a wide-ranging impact on your daily life. TBIs often occur when a person suffers a blow or jolt to the head or when an object penetrates the skull, such as a car accident, leading to brain damage.
If you or someone close to you has experienced a TBI, recognizing the symptoms is crucial for timely and effective treatment. Here’s a closer look at some common symptoms associated with TBIs.
#1: Loss of Consciousness
One of the most immediate signs of a TBI is the loss of consciousness. This can range from a few seconds to several minutes or even hours. However, it’s important to note that a loss of consciousness may not always occur in milder forms of TBI; this symptom usually occurs in moderate to severe cases.
#2: Headaches
Persistent or severe headaches are common after a TBI. These headaches can vary in intensity and duration and may not begin immediately after the injury. However, in some cases, they can last for months following the initial injury.
#3: Confusion and Disorientation
A person with a TBI may experience confusion or feel dazed. They might have trouble remembering recent events, including details about the accident or injury itself. This confusion can greatly impact the victim’s quality of life, impacting their ability to work, go to school, or participate in the activities that they once enjoyed.
#4: Sensory Problems
Sensory issues, such as blurred vision, ringing in the ears, or changes in the ability to smell, are common. Sensitivity to light or sound can also occur. These symptoms may resolve on their own or may require specialized treatment.
#5: Mood Swings and Behavioral Changes
A TBI can affect a person’s emotions and behavior. You might notice increased irritability, mood swings, or depressive symptoms. Changes in personality or social behavior may also occur, impacting the victim’s relationships with loved ones and acquaintances.
#6: Sleep Disturbances
Changes in sleep patterns often occur after a TBI. This can include sleeping more than usual or having trouble sleeping. The victim’s quality of sleep may also be affected, leading to fatigue during the day.
What to Do If You Have Suffered a TBI
Dealing with the aftermath of a traumatic brain injury can be overwhelming and challenging. Understanding these signs is the first step toward seeking the right care and support. However, TBIs can cause many other symptoms that do not appear on this list, from nausea and vomiting to seizures and balance problems.
If you suspect you or someone you know has sustained a TBI or has suffered any type of injury to the head, it is crucial to seek medical care immediately. This step can help you receive the treatment and care that you deserve and prevent potentially dangerous complications. Then, it is advisable to contact an attorney to learn about your options for compensation.
In many cases, the negligent actions of others are responsible for a TBI, such as drivers who cause car accidents or property owners who fail to maintain safe premises. Georgia law allows victims of these accidents to pursue legal action against the at-fault party. If these circumstances apply to your case, contact an Augusta car accident lawyer as soon as possible to discuss your legal options and initiate your claim.
