A head injury after a car accident can be devastating—and it is among the most common consequences. A traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a significant concern following such incidents, as it can have long-lasting and life-altering effects.
The traumatic brain injury lawyers at the Poole Law Group have helped countless brain injury victims recover after their motor vehicle accidents. Not only do we know how serious damage to the brain can be, but we also know what signs to look out for after a car accident. Even a mild TBI can result in substantial medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Symptoms of severe traumatic brain injuries may be obvious: losing consciousness, convulsions or seizures, persistent nausea/vomiting, and so forth. The majority of closed head injuries will result in mild traumatic brain injury; these do not result in loss of consciousness, and many people don’t go to the emergency room for medical care after a seemingly small blow to the head.
However, even a mild TBI should be taken seriously, as research shows that even a mild blow to the head can create chemical changes to your brain cells, altering their strength and function,
Read More from Poole Law Group: Motor Vehicle Accident Concussion? Our Hagerstown Car Accident Lawyer Explains What to Do Next
5 Symptoms of a Traumatic Brain Injury
For mild to moderate TBIs, here are five key symptoms to watch for:
1. Persistent Headaches
What to Look For:
- Headaches that don't go away or worsen over time
- Intense pressure or throbbing pain, especially coupled with nausea and/or light sensitivity
Why It Matters:
Posttraumatic headaches are a common symptom of a TBI. The National Institute of Health reports that concussion-related headaches “may progress to chronic and possibly debilitating conditions” if left untreated. They can range from mild to severe and may be accompanied by other symptoms like nausea or sensitivity to light. If you experience continuous headaches after a car accident, it's essential to seek medical attention as soon as possible.
Read More from Poole Law Group: I think I have a concussion from my motor vehicle accident. What do I need to know?
2. Dizziness and Balance Issues
What to Look For:
- Frequent dizziness or lightheadedness
- Difficulty maintaining balance or coordination
Why It Matters:
Dizziness and balance issues can indicate a disruption in the brain's ability to process information from the inner ear and eyes, which is often a result of a TBI. These symptoms can significantly affect a person’s ability to perform their daily activities, and may lead to further injuries from falls. Recent evidence suggests that TBI-related vestibular (balance) issues can often be corrected with appropriate physical therapy.
Read More from Poole Law Group: Avoiding 10 Common Mistakes in a Maryland Personal Injury Case
3. Memory Problems and Confusion
What to Look For:
- Difficulty remembering recent events or new information
- Feeling disoriented or confused about time, place, or identity
Why It Matters:
Memory problems and confusion are red flags for a TBI; the brain's ability to store and retrieve information may be compromised, leading to short-term memory loss and cognitive difficulties. If you notice these issues, it’s vital to consult your doctor or healthcare professional for further screening.
Feeling “fuzzy” after an accident, but have not been diagnosed with a concussion or TBI? We highly recommend that you return to the doctor and request a radiology exam. An MRI may be able to pinpoint the neural damage in your brain's white matter.
4. Mood Changes and Irritability
What to Look For:
- Sudden or unexplained mood swings
- Increased irritability, anxiety, or depression
Why It Matters:
TBIs can affect the brain's emotional regulation centers, leading to significant mood changes and behavioral issues. These changes can strain relationships and impact your overall quality of life. Monitoring your emotional health after a head injury is crucial for early intervention.
Read More from Poole Law Group: Avoiding 10 Common Mistakes in a Maryland Personal Injury Case
Did You Know…
You may be able to receive financial compensation for loss of enjoyment of daily life, loss of intimacy (sometimes called “loss of consortium”), personal inconvenience, and other such losses after experiencing a brain injury.
Call the personal injury lawyers at the Poole Law Group to learn more: 301-790-3600.
5. Sleep Disturbances
What to Look For:
- Trouble falling or staying asleep
- Sleeping more than usual or experiencing extreme fatigue
Why It Matters:
Sleep disturbances are a common symptom of TBIs. They can exacerbate other symptoms, such as headaches and mood changes, and hinder your recovery process. If you notice significant changes in your sleep patterns after a car accident, it's important to seek medical advice.
Conclusion
Traumatic brain injuries are serious and can have long-lasting impacts on your health and well-being. Brain injury rehabilitation is possible, but it is important to recognize the signs and act quickly.
If you or a loved one has experienced any of these symptoms following a car accident, it's essential to seek medical attention immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment can make a significant difference in recovery and quality of life.
If you have sustained a traumatic brain injury, you may want to consult with a brain injury lawyer to determine if you have a case. A TBI attorney will be able to evaluate your accident from a legal perspective—and flag any worrisome symptoms that may require a formal medical opinion.
Call the TBI attorneys at the Poole Law Group today for your free case evaluation: 301-790-3600
Why Choose Bruce Poole as your Maryland Traumatic Brain Injury Attorney
As traumatic brain injury lawyers, the Poole Law Group understands the complexities and challenges that come with TBIs. Mr. Poole is Chairman of the University of Maryland Shock Trauma Board of Visitors at the University of Maryland Medical Center; he fully appreciates the complexities that arise from brain injury cases.
If you need legal assistance or have questions about your rights and options after a head injury, don't hesitate to reach out. Your health and recovery are paramount; our team is ready to help you navigate this difficult time. Call our office at 301-790-3600 or fill out our contact form here.