Signs of a Traumatic Brain Injury

Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) are typically caused by a violent blow or jolt to the head. The most common causes of traumatic brain injuries are falls and car accidents. TBI’s range from mild to severe and can leave life-altering effects if untreated. However, it can be hard to see the signs of a traumatic brain injury and know if you need medical attention.

The severity of a brain injury can range from mild, like headaches and concussions, to severe, which can result in coma or even death. Despite the differences in severity, seeking medical attention is vital when you have had a suspected head injury or accident. Below we will explain the different signs to look out for after a head injury.

Mild Traumatic Brain Injury Signs

Most TBIs that occur each year are mild and commonly called concussions. Sometimes the signs of a traumatic brain injury overlap with other diagnoses, such as PTSD and depression, so it can be difficult to spot. The symptoms of a mild traumatic brain injury include:

• Headache
• Confusion
• Fatigue or drowsiness
• Nausea or vomiting
• Dizziness or loss of balance
• Problems with speech
• Blurred vision
• Sensitivity to light or sound
• Tinnitus, ringing in the ears
• A bad taste in the mouth
• Changes in the ability to smell
• Loss of consciousness for a few seconds to a few minutes
• Confusion or disorientation
• Mood changes or mood swings
• Feeling depressed or anxious
• Trouble with memory, concentration, attention, or thinking
• A change in sleep habits, including sleeping more than usual

Moderate to Severe Traumatic Brain Injury Signs

Moderate and severe TBI can have more long-term consequences if untreated. The difference between moderate and severe traumatic brain injuries can rely on several factors, including the age of the patient, pre-existing conditions, the area of the brain affected by the injury, or other injuries to the body resulting from the injury. A person suffering from a moderate TBI may experience loss of consciousness for a few hours, while someone suffering from a severe one can experience loss of consciousness for over 24 hours.

While both moderate and severe injuries differ, they are both serious, and you should seek emergency medical attention as soon as possible if you think you have suffered from either. Over the first few hours of an injury, those affected may experience any of the mild symptoms as well as the following signs:

• Loss of consciousness from several minutes to hours
• Persistent headache or headache that worsens
• Repeated vomiting or continued nausea
• Loss of vision in one or both eyes
• Convulsions or seizures
• Dilation of one or both pupils of the eyes
• Clear fluids draining from the nose or ears
• Inability to wake up from sleep
• Weakness or numbness in fingers and toes
• Loss of coordination
• Profound confusion
• Agitation, combativeness, or other unusual behavior
• Slurred speech
• Coma and other disorders of consciousness

Traumatic Brain Injury Signs In Children

It’s important to note that young children can experience traumatic brain injury and may be unable to communicate their symptoms. While children can experience the same signs in adults as the above mentioned, be on the lookout for symptoms that include:

• Change in eating habits
• Persistent crying
• Loss of interest in favorite toys or activities

When to See a Doctor for a Traumatic Brain Injury

If you see any of the signs above following a recent blow or injury to the head, seek emergency medical care immediately. Untreated symptoms can lead to permanent damage. Don’t let medical costs or time away from work deter you from getting the help you need. Personal injury attorneys can help recover damages, including lost wages and medical expenses, if the injury was due to negligence on someone else’s behalf.

Let Us Be Your Advocate

If you or a loved one has suffered a traumatic brain injury, reach out to a personal injury attorney to learn about what compensation you may be entitled to. The California attorneys at can help you receive the compensation you deserve.

Learn more about how we can help you or schedule a free consultation by calling (925) 744-8869 or visiting us online.