When a reckless driver slams into another vehicle, the other driver could easily hit their head on the steering wheel or the window upon impact. They might even black out for a moment after the crash. When they come to, they might have trouble remembering the accident and have an excruciating headache.
This is only one example of how a brain injury might manifest after an accident. There is a broad scale of the types and symptoms of traumatic brain injuries (TBI). Regardless of the scale, any brain injury can have significant and lasting effects on someone’s life after an accident. Here is an overview of the physical, emotional and financial impacts of a TBI.
Physical symptoms of a TBI
The physical symptoms of a TBI vary from moderate to severe. And different people usually experience varying symptoms. However, according to Penn Medicine, some of the most common symptoms of a TBI, including:
- Consistent nausea and fatigue
- A significant change in sleeping schedule
- Difficulty balancing or using fine motor skills
- Sudden seizures
- Draining of fluids from ears or nose
Many TBI symptoms can appear unexpectedly. They can often sneak up on people long after an accident, especially the emotional and psychological effects.
Many effects are not physical
The brain controls all body movements and emotions. So, a TBI can have just as much of an effect on someone’s emotional and psychological conditions as it does on their physical abilities.
Immediately after an accident, many people with TBIs experience memory loss and confusion. This can also persist long-term, impacting a person’s cognitive abilities, including their concentration and thinking processes.
Suffering a TBI can also increase the chances of neurological conditions such as:
- Depression
- Anxiety disorders
- Alzheimer’s disease
- Epilepsy
Treatment is always an option
The effects of a TBI might sound frightening, but there are many treatment options available. Physical therapy and medications can help individuals regain control over their situation and re-learn skills they may have lost.
However, these treatments are often long-term. And they can be expensive. Personal injury benefits and awards can help cover all medical and treatment costs after a TBI to reduce the stress on individuals and their families.
