The brain is a fascinating structure, and almost every person reacts differently when a head injury occurs. Head injuries are common in sports, motor vehicle accidents and even fights. Recognizing the signs of a traumatic brain injury early can make all the difference in the ultimate outcome for the person involved.
Brain injuries come in all shapes and sizes and can range from a simple concussion to complete loss of consciousness. If you have a loved one that has been involved in some type of accident, you should watch for the following symptoms that require medical attention immediately.
Common physical symptoms
Because the brain affects every system in the body, symptoms can manifest themselves in many different ways. Some common physical symptoms to watch for include:
- Repeated nausea or vomiting
- Seizures or convulsions
- Loss of coordination
- Draining clear fluid from ears or nose
- Persistent, worsening headache
- Loss of consciousness for more than a few minutes
- Inability to wake up
- Pupil dilation in one or both eyes
Mental or cognitive symptoms
These symptoms can be even harder to recognize because they can often be attributed to stress or exhaustion after an accident. If you fear someone you love is suffering from a severe TBI, watch for the following cognitive or mental symptoms:
- Disorders of consciousness, including coma
- Slurred speech
- Profound confusion
- Combativeness, agitation or any type of extremely unusual behavior
When should you see a doctor?
Any time the head takes a hard hit, you should seek medical treatment. At times, a head injury will not manifest itself for several hours after the fact, making it even more important that a professional watch and examine those who have been injured.
Traumatic brain injuries can change lives and ruin futures. If another individual was at fault for the traumatic injury of your loved one, you may be entitled to compensation to help cover medical bills, loss of income and pain and suffering you deal with. An attorney can help you determine what your best course of action should be after an accident.