Any type of head injury is a medical emergency. Trauma to the head is one of the worst things that can happen to a car crash victim.
Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) vary in severity and so too do the symptoms. Nonetheless, there are some common patterns to be aware of.
Did you lose consciousness?
If you can’t remember much about the accident or how it happened, chances are you may have been unconscious at some point. Often, consciousness comes back after a few seconds, but this isn’t always the case. Some victims go on to be unconscious for several minutes or even hours. Generally, the longer a person is unconscious, the more serious the head injury is.
Have you had sensory changes?
The brain is like a control center. It regulates physical feelings and perceptions. If you feel weak, numb, nauseated, dizzy, hot or cold, then this could be a sign that a severe TBI has occurred.
Are there noticeable behavioral changes?
A severe TBI can also affect how you behave. You may feel confused and disoriented. You may not remember simple things like your date of birth or name. You may not recognize family members who have joined you at the hospital. Often, such symptoms will subside but the length and extent of recovery depends on the severity of brain damage.
One of the most important things to remember about severe head injuries is that symptoms are not always immediately obvious. Sometimes, scans are the only way to pick up underlying issues. That’s why medical attention is so important after head trauma.
If you were injured by a negligent driver, you may be able to pursue personal injury compensation. This won’t undo the injuries, but it can help with the financial burden of the accident.
