Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are among the more catastrophic injuries a person can suffer. In many cases, damage to the brain is permanent. However, these injuries can differ significantly from one case to the next.
An individual’s symptoms will depend on things like the severity of the injury and the area of the brain that suffered damage. Below are three categories for potential TBI symptoms worth considering in this regard.
Physical symptoms
From a physical standpoint, a TBI can lead to loss of balance, the onset of headaches and migraines, feelings of drowsiness or speech problems. Many people will experience symptoms that make them feel like they are sick, such as nausea and vomiting.
Mental symptoms
For the most severe TBIs, the most extreme mental symptom is a complete loss of consciousness, whether for a short or extended period of time. But even those who do not lose consciousness may feel disoriented, confused and dazed. People often have mood swings, they may begin to feel depressed and anxious, or they can have concentration and memory issues.
Sensory symptoms
Finally, a person’s senses can be dulled or exaggerated after a TBI. Someone may have trouble with lights and sounds, for instance, quickly feeling overwhelmed. They could also suffer from blurry vision, changes to smell or a ringing sound in their ears.
Medical treatment and financial compensation
Medical treatment is important after a traumatic brain injury, as it can help one’s care team determine the severity and the best path forward. This treatment can be expensive, so if an individual’s TBI was the result of someone else’s negligence, it is important to know what legal options they have available to them. Seeking legal guidance can help.