If you are involved in an accident, what might seem like a minor bump to the head can be much more serious than you realize. Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) often have subtle symptoms that can be easily overlooked or mistaken for other conditions. Always seek medical care after an accident, and if you notice any of the following signs of a TBI, get emergency treatment as soon as you can.
A Knoxville personal injury lawyer can help you pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages, ensuring you have the financial support needed for your recovery.
The Different Types of Head Injuries
Brain injuries fall into two main categories: penetrating and non-penetrating injuries. Penetrating TBIs occur when an object breaks through the skull and directly damages brain tissue. These injuries are often caused by bullets, sharp objects, or debris from accidents that pierce the skull.
Non-penetrating TBIs happen when a blow to the head causes the brain to move within the skull. The resulting impact against the inside of the skull can cause bruising, swelling, and tearing of brain tissue.
These injuries often result from falls, car accidents, sports injuries, or physical assaults. While they don’t involve a visible break in the skull, non-penetrating TBIs can be just as serious—or even more dangerous—than penetrating injuries because the damage may not be immediately obvious.
Physical Symptoms of a Brain Injury
After sustaining a head injury, you may experience a range of unusual physical symptoms. These may include persistent headaches that do not improve with medication, convulsions or seizures, and blurred or double vision. New neurological issues like slurred speech, weakness in your arms, legs, or face, or sudden loss of balance may also develop.
Other physical symptoms may include:
- Unequal pupil size
- Unusual pupil dilation
- Clear fluid draining from your nose or ears
- Persistent nausea and vomiting
Cognitive and Behavioral Signs of TBI
Brain injuries often affect your mental functioning and behavior. You might experience a loss of or change in consciousness ranging from a few seconds to several hours. Confusion, disorientation, or feeling “foggy” about your surroundings are also common after a TBI. You may also experience mood swings, especially increased frustration or irritability.
Problems with memory, concentration, or decision-making may develop immediately or emerge days after the injury. Your sleep patterns might also change: sleeping more than usual, having trouble falling or staying asleep, or being unable to wake up normally.
Sensory Changes Associated with Brain Trauma
TBIs commonly affect your sensory perception. You may experience light-headedness, dizziness, vertigo, or problems with balance and coordination.
You might develop unusual sensitivity to light or difficulty focusing, as well as experience ringing in the ears or a heightened sensitivity to sounds. Persistent fatigue, drowsiness, or a sudden lack of energy and motivation can indicate brain trauma rather than simple tiredness.
Seek Legal Action for Your Brain Injury
If you or a loved one has experienced any of the warning signs of a brain injury following an accident, seek medical care as soon as possible. Then, contact a lawyer to discuss your legal options. You may be entitled to compensation if someone else caused your TBI.
After a serious brain injury, you need a personal injury attorney who can support your recovery and fight for your fair compensation. The Lawyers of Brown & Roberto leverage decades of experience and deep legal knowledge to help Tennessee TBI victims seek justice.
Contact us at (865) 691-2777 today for a free consultation and let us guide you through this challenging time.