How To Recognize Brain Injury Symptoms

brain injury

A traumatic brain injury (TBI) typically occurs from a blow or jolt to the head in an accident, most often in auto crashes, falls, and athletic injuries. These injuries can be severe; if another party caused it, you could be entitled to compensation. First, learn about common brain injury signs below. Then, if you need help with a claim, our Lake County personal injury attorneys at The Law Offices of Robert T. Edens, P.C. can assist you.

Most Common Brain Injury – Concussions

It is hard to say how many Americans have concussions annually because many are unreported or undetected. However, mild brain injuries, including concussions, comprise at least 75% of all brain injuries in the US. While many people can have concussions, the most common victims are children, teens, and those 65 and older.

While not every concussion can be prevented, you have a lower risk by wearing your seatbelt in the car and a helmet during athletic events. It also is critical to get a diagnosis and receive care because having more than one concussion can lead to a more severe injury. A mild concussion can show signs such as trouble with balance, dizziness, delayed verbal responses, and even controlling your emotions.

Common Symptoms Of A Traumatic Brain Injury

The symptoms of a brain injury depend largely on how severe the injury is. For example, a more serious injury could cause you to lose consciousness or even go into a coma. On the other hand, people with a less severe brain injury could have a variety of symptoms in the hours and days after the accident, such as:

  • Changes in mood or behavior
  • Seizures or convulsions
  • Fainting or dizziness
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Headaches
  • Sensitivity to smell and light
  • Sleeping a lot or too little
  • Slurred speech
  • Blurred vision or dilated pupils

How A Brain Injury Is Diagnosed

Your medical provider will conduct an examination and ask about any symptoms you are experiencing. They also will want to know how the accident happened. Then, based on the severity of the brain injury and your symptoms, they may diagnose you with:

  • Neurological evaluation: A medical professional, such as a neurologist, will check your thinking, memory, motor functions, hearing, and vision.
  • Imaging scans: MRIs and CT scans can check your brain for swelling and bleeding.
  • Blood tests: Several blood tests can examine your blood for proteins that suggest a concussion or brain injury.

How A Personal Injury Attorney Can Help

A personal injury attorney could be necessary in a brain injury case if another party caused the accident. For example, if another car hit you in Lake County and you hit your head on the window, you could be compensated for your brain injury in a lawsuit. Many brain injuries are expensive to treat and recover from, so do not hesitate to speak to an attorney if someone has injured you.

Speak To Our Lake County Personal Injury Lawyers Today

A brain injury is severe, and you could be entitled to compensation if someone’s negligence caused your accident in Illinois. Please contact our Lake County personal injury lawyers today at The Law Offices of Robert T. Edens, P.C. at (847) 395-2200 for legal assistance.