Very few experiences are as unnerving as a car accident. Just by the sheer force felt during a collision, there is a strong possibility of suffering some form of injury. In some cases, an injury may not present itself until hours or even days after the accident. Damage to the brain, for instance, is a common injury that could not have many physical symptoms and can happen even without the head colliding with an object. It is important to recognize the symptoms of a brain injury right away, as they can worsen if left untreated.
When the head experiences any sort of impact, the brain shifts and moves within the skull and can strike the walls of it if the impact is strong enough. This can even occur without the head hitting anything at all. In some cases, such as whiplash, the head can jolt so severely forward and back that it causes an injury to the brain. These can all lead to a traumatic brain injury (TBI).
Following a car accident, a brain injury can be tough to recognize. It is imperative to get medical attention following a car accident, even if you do not feel any pain.
Mild Brain Injuries
According to Mayo Clinic, here are some common symptoms of a mild brain injury or TBI:
- Headache.
- Nausea or vomiting.
- Problems with speech.
- Sleeping issues.
- Fatigue or drowsiness.
- Dizziness or loss of balance.
- Ringing in the ears.
- Blurred vision.
- Loss of coordination.
- Concentration issues.
- Altered sense of taste or smell.
- Depression or anxiety.
Moderate and Severe Brain Injuries
Severe brain injuries may share similar symptoms of mild injuries. More severe symptoms can be present as well. The following are symptoms of moderate to severe brain injuries or TBIs:
- Loss of consciousness.
- Seizures.
- Weakness.
- Confusion.
- Dilated pupils.
- Clear fluid from eyes or nose.
- Slurred speech.
- Coma.
What Can Happen if a Brain Injury Is Not Treated?
If a brain injury does not get treated, it can lead to several health problems and long-term complications. Not only are brain injuries linked to degenerative conditions, but they can also cause the following:
- Strokes.
- Infections.
- Blood clots.
- Chronic headaches and migraines.
- Vertigo.
- Cognitive issues.
- Behavioral and emotional changes.
- Difficulty communicating.
A brain injury can affect every aspect of your life. Unfortunately, they are quite common following a car accident, so it is very important to seek medical attention immediately. Some mild TBIs may not require treatment and can heal over time with rest. However, some brain injuries can worsen over time if not evaluated and treated quickly.
A doctor can examine you and perform the necessary tests to determine the severity of your injury. They may perform a CT scan or MRI to assess the severity of the injury and to determine a treatment plan. All of these tests can help you with a legal claim as well.
Media Car Accident Lawyers at Eckell Sparks Help Accident Survivors Who Have Serious Brain Injuries
Suffering a brain injury is common following an accident and will likely require you to take time off work to heal and receive treatment. It can also lead to costly medical bills. If you have been injured in an accident, you may be entitled to compensation. One of our Media car accident lawyers at Eckell, Sparks, Levy, Auerbach, Monte, Sloane, Matthews & Auslander, P.C. can help. Call us at 610-565-3701 or fill out our online form for an initial consultation. Located in Media and West Chester, Pennsylvania, we proudly serve clients in Delaware County, Chester County, and Montgomery County.