Car accidents are traumatic, even the low-speed ones. One problem that often goes unaddressed or unnoticed in the immediate hours or days after a motor vehicle accident is traumatic brain injury. TBIs can have significant and enduring effects on health and lifestyle if left untreated.
Understanding mild TBIs
Mild TBIs, commonly known as concussions, exhibit various symptoms. These include headaches, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, speech difficulties, blurred vision, ringing in the ears and changes in smell or taste. You can get a mild TBI by impacts to your head, but you could also get one from a violent shaking. These can go away on their own, but they can escalate, which is why you should always seek medical attention after all car accidents.
Recognizing severe TBIs
Severe TBIs present more intense and lasting symptoms. These include persistent headaches, continuous nausea or vomiting, seizures, an inability to wake from sleep, pupil dilation, limb weakness or numbness, loss of coordination, profound confusion and possible agitation or combativeness. Some of these symptoms could begin immediately, but they may not present for hours or even days after the initial impact. Prompt medical attention is crucial if any of these symptoms manifest following a car accident, as early intervention significantly impacts recovery.
For those seeking further information on TBIs and their symptoms, various resources are available, including medical overviews and legal perspectives on catastrophic injuries. Though, the key takeaway is that you should not take your health lightly. If you are involved in a motor vehicle accident, even if you have no apparent injuries, still go to your doctor and have them check you for a TBI.