Traumatic brain injuries are some of the most common results of motor vehicle crashes and bicycle accidents. While many accidents that occur in Arizona cause mild TBI, also knows as concussions, serious collisions may lead to severe TBI that could have long-term consequences. Understanding the most common signs and symptoms of TBI may help you get the medical care you need to recover as quickly as possible.
According to information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, concussion symptoms usually fade after a few days. It may take slightly longer for young children or older adults to fully recover from mild TBI. However, moderate and severe TBI may include symptoms that last for much longer, sometimes even years. Additionally, you may have a longer recovery time if you have already experienced TBI.
The CDC states that TBI symptoms fall into four separate categories: cognitive, emotional, physical and sleep-related. Sometimes TBI signs are obvious immediately following a collision, but it is also possible that you may not experience some symptoms until days or months later. If you do not experience symptoms until long after the injury, it may be harder to know for sure that the TBI caused them. For example, headache, nausea and poor sleep may all be symptoms of TBI, but it may be easier to assume they are from an illness such as the flu if you do not experience them until months after a car or bicycle accident.
There are a few TBI signs that may indicate you need immediate medical attention. Some things to watch for include seizures, slurred speech, inability to stay awake, persistent confusion and loss of coordination.
This information on TBI is intended to be educational and should not be taken as legal advice.