A brain injury changes your life right away. From the moment you wake up in the hospital, you’re going to be able to tell that things are different. You may have trouble remembering where you are or who you are. You might have difficulty speaking or walking. You may even lose your sight or hearing, depending on where the injury is.
As someone who has suffered a serious brain injury, also known as a traumatic brain injury, it is vital to get the proper medical care. The sooner you receive treatment, the better. If the brain is allowed to continue swelling or bleeding, there’s a chance that you could suffer additional injuries as a result of complications.
Why are traumatic brain injuries common in traffic accidents?
The reason is that there are many ways to harm your brain. You could hit the windshield with your head, or you might slam your head against the window. There is a risk of crushing injuries that could impact your head, and there is always a risk of whiplash, which can force your brain to impact the skull internally.
What are some signs of a traumatic brain injury?
A severe traumatic brain injury may have signs including:
- A loss of cognitive functions
- Trouble with emotions
- Difficulty with sensations
- Poor motor function or changes in motor function
For example, you may have difficulty hearing or seeing, be extremely weak, impaired coordination, or have impulse control issues. The symptoms you have from your traumatic brain injury will vary from others since no two people are exactly alike.
What should you do if you’re involved in a serious collision?
The first thing you should always do is go to the hospital, especially if you hit your head, have a headache, or have other injuries. This first visit to the hospital is crucial because it is when the medical staff can give you an exam and discover injuries that you may not yet realize you have.
After a car crash, the adrenaline in your body prevents you from feeling the actual effects of injuries. This is part of the fight-or-flight response, which is intended to keep you safe. However, without a proper diagnosis, you could have injuries that will continue to worsen and threaten your life. Always get the medical care you need first, then reach out to Kansas City traumatic brain injury attorney to begin your legal claim.