Auto accidents are traumatic incidents that cause physical and emotional wounds. In the aftermath of such an event, knowing what to do next is difficult—especially when dealing with head injuries. If you experience one or more of these symptoms after a collision, seek immediate medical care and call an auto accident attorney in your area.
Migraines and Headaches
Post-accident migraines and headaches are common complaints. Although evidence suggests there’s no greater risk of migraines based on the severity of a brain injury, about half of all survivors will experience these issues within the year after an accident. Seek counsel from a wyoming personal injury lawyer if you have migraines or headaches after a crash.
Vertigo and Dizziness
Over half of all moderate to severe brain injury patients experience dizziness or vertigo—and symptoms such as imbalance and lightheadedness can last for years. More than other signs, these are linked to poor recovery outcomes.
Light Sensitivity
Also known as photophobia, light sensitivity is another hidden symptom of post-accident brain injury. It occurs in up to 70% of patients, making it one of the most common signs of traumatic brain injury.
Aural Hypersensitivity
Like photophobia, hypersensitivity to sound affects individuals for years after an accident. Not only are loud noises painful, but they’re harder for TBI victims to tolerate.
Seizures
The severity and type of brain injury increases the risk of post-accident seizures. These disorders aren’t as common as some other symptoms, but they may occur at any point in the recovery process and are more common in children than in adults.
Eye Problems
The eyes and the brain share a complex connection, which can be affected by auto accident head injuries. Trauma may disrupt the VOR or vestibulo-ocular reflex, which affects visual processing as the head moves. Blurry or double vision is a common issue, along with ocular pain and dry eyes.
Chronic Pain
Ongoing pain is another hidden symptom of traumatic brain injury, and it may affect the head, shoulders, neck, and back. Depression and other emotional disorders greatly increase the risk of chronic pain among auto accident survivors.
Cognitive Effects
Research suggests that nearly two-thirds of traumatic brain injury patients have cognitive disorders that affect daily well-being. Signs may include:
· Memory loss.
· Lower attention span.
· Trouble focusing.
· Decreased intelligence.
· Slow decision-making.
These concerns may affect patients’ treatment and their ability to regain normal function after an accident.
Disrupted Sleep
Studies show that severe brain injuries disrupt sleep patterns in up to 60% of patients. These disruptions may appear as insomnia (an inability to sleep) or hypersomnia (too much sleep), with the latter being more common.
Emotional Issues
Like other illnesses, emotional distress is common among TBI patients who have survived auto accidents. PTSD, anxiety, and depression are common, affecting up to one-third of victims. Personality changes, including aggression and apathy, occur regularly.
Seek Legal Help After an Auto Accident
The brain controls everything we see and do, and damage may lead to lifelong cognitive, mental, and emotional symptoms. If you have decreased focus, memory loss, and sudden mood changes after an accident, you must seek medical treatment immediately.
While such symptoms aren’t exclusive to post-accident brain injuries, and emotional signs may be indicative of surviving a traumatic event, it’s important not to disregard them. Not all wounds are visible, and prompt attention can lessen the severity of TBI symptoms. If you’ve been in an auto accident and have suffered a brain injury, schedule a consultation with a personal injury attorney.