Every day hundreds of accidents occur in New York. While some incidents are minor and don’t cause real or lasting symptoms, others are more serious.
Some of these accidents can result in serious head injuries and, in some cases, a TBI (traumatic brain injury). Unfortunately, signs of a TBI aren’t always evident right away. Because of this, it’s important to know what to look for and seek medical help if you notice any of the symptoms.
Common signs of a potential TBI
It doesn’t matter if the injury to your head seemed minor; you should still be checked out by a medical professional after an accident. Sometimes, symptoms of TBIs don’t appear for up to 24 hours after the accident occurs.
Symptoms of a TBI to watch for include:
- Vomiting or nausea
- Slurring your speech
- Headache or dizziness
- Confusion
- Changes in behavior or mood
These are just a few of the most common symptoms of a TBI. It’s important to understand that if you don’t seek treatment for these symptoms and have a TBI treated, it may lead to more serious complications, such as long-term memory loss, internal bleeding, or death.
Diagnosing a TBI
It is important to note that diagnosing a TBI requires several tests. For example, your doctor may conduct a blood test, MRI, CT scan and a general neurological evaluation. Once they know the extent of the injury, your doctor can create a treatment plan. This may or may not include surgery.
Your rights after a TBI caused by an accident
If you are diagnosed with a TBI after an accident, it’s important to understand that even mild cases can change your life forever. If the TBI was caused by someone else, you might be able to recover compensation. Be sure to protect your rights by keeping all medical records and other information provided by your doctor.