The Identifying Signs of TBIs After an Accident

Have you ever been involved in a road accident and injured your head? If so, you potentially have Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs). Don’t get alarmed; it’s probably not severe if diagnosed early. However, it can be challenging to self-diagnose oneself; thus, seeing a doctor immediately after an accident is essential. 

All road users are at risk of sustaining TBIs. However, motorcyclists have a higher risk. This is true even when wearing proper and quality protective gear. Read through to learn more about TBI disability and this sign of the scary condition. 

So, what are TBI injuries, and how do they come along? Read on to find more. 

What is TBI and How Does It Affect Accident Victims? 

You’ll sustain a Traumatic Brain Injury if the occurrence of the accident affects the normal functionality of your brain. This can be from the sudden and rapid banging of your head, making the brain shake, or hitting the walls of the skull. 

The rapid motion’s effect ranges from the following:

• Mild concussions to severe injuries 
• Cognitive impairment 
• Physical implications

Additionally, TBI can also lead to death. This is according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which links approximately 61,000 Americans’ deaths (per year) to TBI.

Therefore, understanding the signs of TBI cannot be undermined. Here is a comprehensive look at the signs of TBI after an accident. 

Behavioral Signs of TBI After an Accident

Migraines and Headaches

You might have TBI if you’re still having random headaches long after the occurrence of an accident. However, they can also develop immediately after an accident. To avoid long-term implications, seek immediate medical attention. This is especially true in the weeks or months after the accident. 

Implications for Cognitive Functions

You can have memory difficulties from TBI complications. This includes problems in decision-making and other implications. They include the following: 

• Forgetfulness
• Inability to focus after an accident
• Persistent confusion
• Slurred speech
• Profound confusion
• Combativeness or agitation behavior

Ensure you see a medical practitioner if you showcase the mentioned signs. 

Vomiting and Nausea

Chronic nausea and vomiting, especially when accompanied by additional signs, may indicate a TBI. These symptoms may arise quickly after the injury or later, suggesting an underlying neurological problem.

Negative Emotional Conditions

TBIs can affect your emotional well-being. This usually happens a few months or at least weeks after the accident. This is when you portray the following conditions:

• Mood swings
• Impatience
• Heightened emotional responses 

Heightened emotional behaviors include anger and a lack of empathy towards others. The worst-case scenario of negative emotional symptoms involves depression and anxiety.

Physical Signs of TBI After an Accident

Sensory Changes

You can also experience changes in sensory perception, like sensitivity to light or sound, clouded vision, and tinnitus. These changes are immediately noticeable, though they can also occur over time.

Sleep Issues

You can also have trouble falling asleep or experience extreme weariness. These issues may persist even after the healing of physical head injuries.

Seizures

Seizures can occur in patients who have had a severe brain injury. Seizures may occur in the early phases of the damage or years later. Post-traumatic epilepsy refers to recurring seizures.

Infections

The layers of tissues (meninges) surrounding the brain can tear from skull fractures or penetrating wounds. Certain bacteria can infiltrate the brain and lead to infection. A meningeal infection (meningitis) can also affect the nervous system if not treated. 

Conclusion

Accidents are a significant threat to victims’ mental health. Therefore, it’s advisable to prioritize related treatments after an accident, similar to bodily well-being. Seeking immediate medical assistance for any indicators of a TBI, even if they appear minor, can significantly help in a faster recovery.

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