Motor vehicle accidents can cause traumatic brain injuries because of how violently the brain crashes back and forth into the skull. Some results appear almost immediately while others can take days to appear. These are some symptoms of traumatic brain injury that Florida residents should be aware of.
Two types of traumatic brain injuries
Doctors divide traumatic brain injuries into two broad categories. The first is open traumatic brain injuries, which occur when an object goes through the skull and penetrates the brain. For example, in a motor vehicle accident, a piece of metal from the car cuts through the skull and becomes lodged in the brain.
The second category is non-penetrating traumatic brain injuries, where the brain is violently thrashed back and forth in the skull. This type usually happens in motor vehicle accidents as the head moves violently because of the accident’s force.
Physical signs of a traumatic brain injury
Physical symptoms can appear after a traumatic brain injury. These symptoms include headaches, blurred vision, clear fluid from the nose or ears, nausea and upset stomach. Often, the physical symptoms appear within the first few hours.
Other types of symptoms
Changes in levels of consciousness are common with traumatic brain injuries. A person may appear hard to wake up, seem confused or have trouble remembering basic things. In extreme cases, traumatic brain injuries can cause comas.
Another common symptom is perception injuries that affect the senses. For example, a person may lose their sense of taste or become sensitive to lights and sounds. They may also lose interest in their favorite activities or be constantly tired, irritable or irrational.
Traumatic brain injuries from a motor vehicle accident can cause physical, cognitive, behavioral and perception changes. If you have been in a car accident and experienced any type of head injury, keep an eye out for symptoms that can surface days later.
