Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are extremely serious and happen more often than you may think. There are approximately 1.5 million TBIs in the United States every year.
Most TBIs are mild, but even a mild brain injury can cause long-term effects. So, what are the symptoms of a mild traumatic brain injury? How can you tell the difference between a TBI and a simple head injury?
In this article, we’ll discuss six signs you have sustained a mild TBI after a car accident.
1. Persisting Headaches
One of the most common symptoms of a personal injury is a headache that won’t go away. If you were in a car accident and now have a headache that is different from any you’ve had before, it could be a sign of a concussion or mild TBI.
See your doctor right away if this is the case. Headaches are not always an indicator of a TBI however. Sometimes whiplash can cause headaches. So, if you’re not sure whether your headache is due to a TBI, ask your doctor for clarification.
2. Nausea and Vomiting
Another common symptom of a mild TBI is nausea and vomiting. This is most likely due to brain swelling.
If you are experiencing nausea and vomiting after a car accident, it’s important to see your doctor right away as this could be a sign of a more serious head injury.
3. Mental Confusion
Mental confusion is another sign of a mild TBI. If you are confused about what happened in the accident or where you are, it’s important to see a doctor right away.
Mental confusion can also manifest as difficulty concentrating or problems with short-term memory. So, if you’re having trouble remembering things or staying focused, these could also be signs of a mild TBI.
4. Sluggish Movement and Speech
Sluggishness can manifest as feeling slow and sluggish, or feeling like your movements are uncoordinated. If you are hurt, you may sound slurred or have difficulty getting your words out.
A mild TBI can also cause problems with balance and coordination. So, if you’re feeling unsteady on your feet or are having trouble walking, these could also be signs of a mild TBI.
5. Light Sensitivity and Dizziness
Light sensitivity happens when a person feels like a bright light is hurting their eyes and head for a long period of time. This can make a person feel like they’re on fire when being in the light.
Dizziness is feeling off balance and can make a person feel like they’re going to faint. Both light sensitivity and dizziness aren’t normal conditions after a car accident.
6. Tinnitus
Tinnitus is a ringing in the ears that can be constant or come and go. It can be mild or severe and can make it difficult to concentrate.
Audio sensitivity happens when sounds are either too loud or bothersome. This can make it difficult to enjoy activities like watching television or going out with friends. Tinnitus is common in serious head injuries, usually after car accidents.
Learn More About a Mild Traumatic Brain Injury
Discerning a mild traumatic brain injury is as simple as diagnosing a concussion. These six tips should give you enough insight to see a doctor and contact an injury lawyer right away.
Do you want to learn more about how to hire the best lawyer for your case? If so, check out our blog for more helpful articles.
