Detecting Traumatic Brain Injuries

Brain injury lawyers know that all too often undetected traumatic brain injuries (TBI) from a bump or blow to the head are difficult to diagnose. TBI is one of the least understood causes of death and disability in the USA.

With symptoms that a patient is not equipped to detect or report, it stands to reason that brain injuries can easily go undiagnosed by physicians. Think about it – an injured brain can hardly be expected to “tell you” that it is injured and not functioning correctly. Unlike the robots of science fiction, the human brain does not have a self diagnostic routine to sort out what might be damaged.

So, if you have been in a car crash caused by someone’s negligent or reckless conduct, how can you determine if you might have suffered a TBI?

Keep in mind how traumatic brain injuries occur. Typically, they are the result of a bump, blow or jolt to the head, or a whipping of the head that is significant enough to disrupt important brain processes. For example, a concussion suffered while playing a contact sport, can result in a TBI. Similarly, feeling dazed or “out of it” right after a car crash can be a sign of a TBI. It is important to report to your doctor even mild symptoms of the following nature after an accident:

Headaches
Intolerance of loud noises
Confusion
Ear ringing
Visual disturbances
Excessive sleeping
Nausea and vomiting
Dizziness and balance difficulties
Mood swings
Irritability
Trouble concentrating

A brain injury can impact the way a person thinks, feels, acts, and behaves. Tell your doctor if you have difficulty recalling important events or information. Let your physician know if you start having problems dealing with job or school responsibilities, or even tasks like paying bills. Have a family member or friend go to the doctor with you so they can explain the changes in you they have noticed.

If you or a loved one has suffered a traumatic brain injury, contact one of our experienced Indiana personal injury lawyers for advice and guidance.