A serious work accident, severe motor vehicle collision or a fall down a flight of stairs can all lead to catastrophic injuries. From broken bones and spinal cord damage to crush injuries and amputation, victims can suffer with lifelong conditions and extensive medical treatment. One common type of serious injury centers on head trauma.
A traumatic brain injury or TBI can impact the victim’s personal and professional lives. The severity of the symptoms is not always tied to the type of accident. In other words, what might at first seem like a minor impact can lead to permanent, devastating symptoms. Medical professionals have a difficult time diagnosing a TBI since the symptoms are unique to every individual. The symptoms, however, typically fall into three categories:
- Symptoms with physical components: Physical symptoms are likely recognized first as individuals exhibit numerous measurable changes. For example, a TBI victim can experience blurred vision, ringing in the ears, fatigue, light sensitivity, dizziness and inner ear difficulties leading to balance problems.
- Symptoms with cognitive components: Unfortunately, many TBIs result in dramatic cognitive changes. The victim could suffer memory loss, lapses in concentration and confusion. Additionally, he or she could have trouble speaking, following a conversation or making decisions.
- Symptoms with an emotional component: While physical and cognitive symptoms are often measurable based on diagnostic tests, emotional symptoms can remain hidden following a serious accident. From mood swings and personality changes to depression and irritability, the victim might not even recognize the changes.
A serious car crash or head strikes from a falling object can lead to serious consequences. Individuals can feel a range of symptoms based on the type of accident and their own medical history. Unfortunately, some catastrophic injuries can be difficult for medical professionals to accurately diagnose. It is wise to share any symptom, no matter how seemingly minor, with a doctor.