The Signs and Symptoms of a Traumatic Brain Injury

A traumatic brain injury is a violent or sudden jolt to the brain that causes an injury to the brain. A TBI can be due to a construction site fall, a motor vehicle accident, a personal attack, or for other reasons. In a TBI, the brain hits the skull or shakes around in the skull. Early intervention is needed to help treat the brain injury and to reduce the risk of long-term emotional and physical difficulties. Unfortunately, a TBI can be hard to diagnose. Many victims don’t seek emergency room treatment or medical care until permanent damage has been done.

A concussion is a temporary loss of consciousness caused be a traumatic brain injury. A concussion or TBI can damage brain cells and cause adverse chemical reactions in the brain. Some people are fortunate enough to suffer mild concussions which resolve in days. For other Chattanooga TBI victims, especially older adults and younger children, the effects of a concussion or TBI can last weeks, months, or a lifetime.

The types of TBI complications doctors look for

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there are four categories of symptoms.

• Impaired cognitive abilities. Patients with a TBI can find it difficult to reason clearly. They may have difficulty concentrating or remembering.
• Physical damage. Concussion victims complain of headaches, blurred vision, dizziness, difficulty balancing, unusual sensitivity to light or sound, and fatigue. Vomiting and nausea are early symptoms. Slurred speech is also a sign of a TBI.
• Emotional difficulties. TBI victims may have mood swings, anxiety, irritability, and feelings of sadness
• Altered sleep habits. Sleeping more or sleeping less than normal is a sign of a concussion or TBI. Patients often have difficulty falling asleep or may have difficulty waking up.

Additional TBI symptoms include seizures, one pupil that is bigger than the other, and unusual behavior. Children may cry for long periods of time or may refuse to eat or nurse.

Many TBI victims refuse to admit they are having difficulties which is why it is important for family members, friends, and co-workers to suggest that victims get medical help. Victims often don’t understand that their symptoms are related to a traumatic event.

Concussions and traumatic brain injuries can be life-altering events. Victims often need to work with psychologists, psychiatrists, occupational therapists, speech therapists, and many other healthcare providers.

At Wagner Workers Compensation & Personal Injury Lawyers, we fight for those who were wronged by others. Our lawyers in Chattanooga and Cleveland, TN and in Northern Georgia, are experienced and highly respected attorneys. We have a strong track record of negotiating just settlements and obtaining significant jury awards. To speak with one of our attorneys about a TBI or concussion, please call us now at 423-756-7923 or complete our contact form to schedule a free consultation.