Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) are one of the most serious health issues in the US

According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly 2 million people in the United States suffer from some type of brain injury every single year. While the degree of brain injury can vary, the fact of the matter is that these types of injuries are extremely serious and often result in death.

In most cases, TBI is caused by impact to the head that disrupts a person’s normal brain activity. Depending on the case, TBI may affect an individual’s abilities to learn and think, as well as their memories. Unfortunately, brain injuries like this often happen as the result of serious car accidents, falls at construction sites, and other workplace accidents.

Common Causes of TBI 

Before we go over the most common signs and symptoms of traumatic brain injury, let’s take a more in-depth look at what can cause TBI.

The CDC states that falls are the leading cause of TBI, especially among older adults. Statistics indicate that nearly 60,000 seniors are hospitalized every single year as a result of head injuries, many of which are left with long-term cognitive problems and an inability to function as they once did.

Furthermore, it is estimated that 775,000 adults are living with some form of disability caused by a brain injury.

Are there other names for TBI? 

Mild traumatic brain injury is often referred to as the following:

• Concussion
• Minor brain injury
• Minor head trauma
• Minor head injury

Signs and Symptoms of TBI 

It is important to note that traumatic brain injury can carry a wide range of both physical and psychological side effects. While many symptoms of TBI will show up right away, others do not show any signs for days or even weeks following the accident. Because of this, it is imperative you understand what to look for and seek medical attention right away. The longer you wait, the more serious your condition may become.

Physical symptoms of traumatic brain injury 

Some of the most common physical symptoms of TBI include:

• Immediate loss of consciousness
• Headache
• Feelings of being dazed, confused, or disoriented
• Nausea or vomiting
• Fatigue
• Speech problems
• Difficulty sleeping
• Loss of balance
• Dizziness

Sensory symptoms of traumatic brain injury 

TBI often comes with what is described as sensory problems, including:

• Blurred vision
• Ringing ears
• A bad taste in the mouth
• Changes in ability to smell
• Sensitivity to light or sound

Cognitive symptoms of traumatic brain injury 

Cognitive or mental symptoms of TBI may include:

• Memory problems
• Inability to concentrate or focus
• Mood swings
• Changes in mood
• Feeling depressed or anxious

The above are symptoms of mild traumatic brain injury, which is the most common form.

Moderate to severe traumatic brain injury symptoms 

 Individuals suffering from moderate or severe TBI may display the following symptoms:

• Loss of consciousness
• Persistent headache
• Repeated vomiting or nausea
• Convulsions or seizures
• Dilation of the pupils
• Fluids draining from the nose or ears
• Inability to wake up from sleep
• Loss of coordination
• Confusion
• Slurred speech
• Agitation or other unusual behavior
• Coma

If you have been injured in an accident and have suffered a traumatic brain injury as a result, please contact Rad Law Firm today. You may be able to seek compensation for your injuries and our personal injury attorneys are here to help you get the process started.