Car accidents are devastating to anyone involved, and they can be life-threatening. Some injuries, like traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), are especially dangerous and may require special medical intervention. Traumatic brain injuries can have long-lasting effects on a person’s physical, mental and emotional well-being.
Recognizing the signs
The signs of a traumatic brain injury (TBI) are not always obvious. Sometimes car accident victims and their doctors can identify symptoms immediately; other times, it takes time for a person to develop symptoms.
Physical symptoms
Physical symptoms often manifest the fastest, immediately or shortly after an accident. Some signs include:
- Headaches that won’t go away
- Nausea, vomiting or dizziness
- Difficulty walking or standing
- Sensitivity to light and sound
- Blurred vision
Cognitive and behavioral changes
TBIs can impact a person’s mental abilities and make it difficult to return to normal thinking patterns. Some of these changes include:
- Memory problems
- Difficulty concentrating
- Slow thinking or confusion
- Anxiety or depression
- Personality changes
- Difficulty making decisions
- Problems organizing thoughts
Sensory changes
Traumatic brain injuries can also affect how a person perceives and processes the information around them. These signs often manifest as:
- Changes in taste and smell
- Difficulty understanding information
- Reduced hand-eye coordination or motor skills
- Disorientation
- Feeling overwhelmed by normal stimuli
Sleep problems
TBIs can also present symptoms in a person’s sleep patterns, such as:
- Insomnia
- Excessive sleepiness
- Frequent nightmares
Remaining alert
Recognizing the signs of a traumatic brain injury after a car accident can sometimes take time, so it is critical to remain alert and vigilant. Occasionally the victim will notice signs, and other times, the people closest to them will. Everyone involved in the person’s day-to-day needs to understand the symptoms and signs.
Traumatic brain injuries are one of the most devastating injuries a person can sustain after a car accident. After an accident, it is essential to seek immediate medical attention and for victims to advocate for themselves and their health. Early detection of a TBI can contribute to a much better outcome.
