Head injuries and brain injuries can lead to significant long-term disabilities for individuals. Many car accidents, motorcycle accidents, or slip and falls can lead to a head injury. When a person sustains any type of brain injury, it is crucial to seek prompt medical treatment. However, sometimes, the signs and symptoms of a head injury are delayed. Here, we want to discuss why head injury symptoms are often delayed as well as what to look out for that could indicate that a person needs immediate medical care.
Why Are Head and Brain Injury Symptoms Often Delayed?
Brain and head are relatively unique, at least in comparison to the other types of injuries that occur throughout the rest of the body. The brain is encased inside an inflexible hard shell, our skull. The skull not only hides any potential trauma the brain has sustained but also leads to immense complications if there is any bleeding or swelling. The brain and the blood essentially have nowhere to go, so the swelling often causes irreparable brain damage.
If individuals do not seek immediate medical care when delayed symptoms of a head injury arise, there is a significant chance of long-term disabilities or even death. A clear example of how this can happen occurred last year with the death of comedian Bob Saget. By all accounts, Bob Saget fell in his hotel room and sustained a head injury. He likely did not know the severity of the injury, but a medical examiner concluded that Mr. Saget went to sleep, not realizing the severity of the damage. Unfortunately, his injury worsened, and he passed away in his sleep.
What Signs and Symptoms Should You Look Out For?
There are many signs and symptoms that could indicate a person has experienced a head or brain injury, even if these symptoms show up hours or even days after the initial incident occurred. Please understand that this is not a complete list, and it is vital for you or a loved one to seek medical care as soon as any of these symptoms arise:
Persistent headaches. Frequent or worsening headaches that persist beyond the initial injury.
Dizziness or balance problems. Feeling unsteady or having difficulty maintaining balance.
Nausea or vomiting. These symptoms may occur even after the initial injury has occurred.
Cognitive difficulties. Problems with memory, concentration, attention, or thinking clearly.
Mood or behavioral changes. Unexplained irritability, mood swings, depression, anxiety, or changes in personality.
Sensory disturbances. Changes in vision, hearing, taste, or smell.
Sleep disturbances. Insomnia, excessive sleepiness, or changes in sleep patterns.
Fatigue or lack of energy. Feeling excessively tired or lacking energy, even with adequate rest.
Seizures. Development of unprovoked seizures or convulsions.
Sensitivity to light or noise. Increased sensitivity to light or sound.
Slurred speech or difficulty speaking. Problems with articulation or finding the right words.
Coordination and motor skill problems. Difficulty with coordination, balance, fine motor skills, or clumsiness.
These signs and symptoms may manifest differently in different individuals. Always err on the side of caution when it comes to seeking medical care after any bump or blow to the body or head.
Working With an Injury Attorney
If you have sustained any type of brain injury caused by the careless or negligent actions of another person or entity, we encourage you to reach out to our St. Petersburg injury attorneys as soon as possible. A lawyer can help walk you through your path forward and determine whether or not you have a viable head or brain injury case.
