Whether it is the result of a serious motor vehicle collision, a fall from height or being struck by a falling object, head trauma can have a devastating impact on the victim and his or her entire family. While the injury can be different depending on a person’s medical history and the severity of the accident, traumatic brain injury (TBI) symptoms generally fall into four categories:
- Cognition: These symptoms center on an individual’s ability to remember and think clearly. Suffering from these symptoms, an individual might find it hard to concentrate or feel that their mind has been slowed down. They might exhibit memory problems either having trouble remembering past events or having trouble making new memories.
- Physical: In many instances, an individual might experience physically measurable symptoms in relation to a recent head trauma. For example, these symptoms could consist of changes in perception including a headache, blurry vision, dizziness or sensitivity to light. In addition, individuals could suffer balance problems, nausea or fatigue.
- Personality: Depending on the region of the brain that was affected, individuals could suffer symptoms directly tied to emotions or their mood. For example, after the injury, the victim might feel irritable, depressed, nervous or anxious. They might experience stronger emotional responses more often than they usually would.
- Sleep patterns: Depending on the individual, sleep patterns might be disturbed. These symptoms can range from an individual sleeping more than usual, less than usual or simply having trouble falling asleep or staying asleep.
Depending on whether it is the brain’s structure or function that is impaired, individuals experience different symptoms. Some symptoms could show up immediately after an accident and some symptoms might not be apparent for several days. Some individuals might not suffer any of the symptoms mentioned on this list yet suffer several others that prevent them from living a healthy, productive life.
If you suffered a head injury after an accident, it is wise to discuss your case with an experienced legal professional.