Despite its name, traumatic brain injury may involve symptoms that seem less than traumatic. But don’t let those mild symptoms fool you. Any injury to the head that affects brain function is, in fact, a serious one. If gone untreated, the condition can get worse.
Commonly known as a TBI, a traumatic brain injury occurs when an external force of some sort injures the brain. This can happen via a blow to the head or a penetrating injury. And, it’s a top cause of death and disability worldwide. At highest risk are children and young adults, particularly males.
Mild TBI signs and symptoms may include:
- Loss of consciousness that can range from a few seconds to a few minutes
- A dazed, confused or disoriented state
- Memory or concentration problems
- Headache
- Dizziness or loss of balance
- Nausea or vomiting
- Sensory problems, such as blurred vision, ringing in the ears or a bad taste in the mouth
- Sensitivity to light or sound
- Mood changes or mood swings
- Feelings of depression or anxiety
- Drowsiness or fatigue
- Difficulty sleeping or sleeping more than usual
No matter how mild or insignificant your injury seems, or even if you don’t believe an injury has occurred at all, any blow to the head warrants a visit to your doctor. This is especially true if the victim is a child. Keep in mind that it may be days, or even weeks before a TBI symptom manifests. So, it’s best to get medical attention right away. And, if you or your dependents suffer traumatic brain injury as a result of someone else’s negligence or deliberate action, contact an experienced TBI attorney. Orlando’s Todd E. Copeland and Associates can be reached anytime, 24/7, at 407-999-8995.