TBI Symptoms After a Kansas Car Accident

A Subtle Condition

Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) are more common than you may realize. A car accident, stumbling down the stairs, and getting an awkward hit in a football game can all cause a TBI. A brain injury can have lasting effects on a person’s life and require comprehensive medical care.

Noticing the first signs of a TBI is challenging, mainly because it may take a few days or weeks for the symptoms to emerge. The best thing to do after an accident where you believe to have suffered head trauma is to get medical treatment to ensure that there’s no damage to the brain or other internal organs. However, you don’t need to be a medical professional to be aware if the signs of a TBI. Here are three symptoms to look out for.

Changes in Consciousness

Changes in an individual’s conscious state are problematic because they are so subtle. If the injured person seems to faint or fall asleep at odd times, that’s a sign of a brain injury that needs treatment right away. These episodes could be as quick as a few seconds to a few minutes.

A person may also notice that it’s difficult to wake up after sleeping (or general changes in sleep patterns), or that their overall personality or mood changes. All of these are signs that something could be wrong with their brain.

Convulsions and Seizures

One of the more obvious signs and symptoms of a TBI is if the injured person starts to convulse or go into a seizure. You should also be aware that there are different types of seizures. Seizures can be quiet and quick. The person may be conscious or unconscious. Anyone who thinks they may have a brain injury after an accident should read up on the different types of seizures that occur because of TBIs. If you’re the one suffering a fracture, tell a friend or family member and ask them to keep an eye on you.

Neurologic Deficit

A neurological problem is another symptom that’s difficult to recognize without professional help. The injured person may start to have difficulty speaking, or their speech may be slurred or incoherent. They may also have trouble with balancing or walking. Other motor functions like moving their arms, and legs could be compromised. Finally, they may be unable to move parts of their face, or their facial expressions may twitch on their own.

If you or someone you know may have a TBI, don’t waste time. See a doctor as soon as you become suspicious. A doctor may be costly, but an untreated TBI will undoubtedly be harder to deal with in the future.

If you sustained a brain injury in an accident, you may be entitled to compensation to cover the cost of medical bills and other damages. Southwest Kansas personal injury lawyer Joseph T. Welsh understands the severity of TBIs and the financial strain that can result from pursuing treatment. Joe can analyze the facts of your case and help you pursue financial compensation from the liable party. Contact Joseph T. Welsh, Attorney at Law today at (620) 510-5030 for a free case evaluation.