Indications of TBI

Though closed head injuries are not objectively apparent at the time of an accident, common indications that TBI may result are loss of consciousness, inability to recall events immediately before or after the accident, and alteration in mental state immediately following, such as feeling dazed, disoriented, or confused. After an accident, common symptoms of TBI in adults are the following:

persistent neck pain

ringing in the ears (tinnitus)

lapses in attention, perception, judgment, or information processing

difficulty with memory, concentration, or decision making

trouble with cognition, abstract concepts, and time and space relationship

limitations on reading and writing skills

slowness in thinking, speaking, or taking action

getting lost or easily confused

persistent low-grade headaches

feeling tired all the time, lacking energy or motivation

problems associated with sleep, such as insomnia or oversleeping

reduced strength, endurance, and coordination

onset of tremors or swallowing problems

feeling light-headed or dizzy

onset of seizures

volatility in your mood - apathy, irritability, anxiety, and/or depression

difficulty maintaining your balance

increased sensitivity to sounds, light, or distractions

blurred vision

reduction of sense of smell or taste

Because children are less aware of their habits and normal functioning than adults, it is important for adults to monitor children carefully if it is suspected that they are suffering from a TBI. Symptoms to look for in children include:

loss of energy or tiring easily

reduced interest in favorite toys or activities

irritability or crankiness

changes in eating or sleeping patterns

changes in the manner in which the child plays, both alone and with others

difficulties at school

deterioration of recently learned skills

loss of balance, or instability while walking

The exact effects on an individual who suffers a TBI will vary greatly, depending on the force of impact the brain suffered and the location(s) of the injury on the brain. It is important to obtain a thorough medical examination following any accident so as to immediately determine all injuries received. To appreciate the extent of an injury, it is helpful to understand medical scales used to measure injuries involving TBI.

The Glasgow Coma Scale rates a patient's ability to open his/her eyes, and respond to verbal commands and responses. Each level of response indicates the degree of brain injury.

Glasgow Coma Scale

The lowest score is a 3 and indicates no response from the patient. A person who is alert and oriented would be rated at 15.

In cases involving Traumatic Brain Injury, it is essential that measures be taken promptly to preserve evidence, prove the nature and extent of your injuries, and to enable expert medical witnesses to support the cause of your injuries. If you or a loved one has suffered what you believe may be a traumatic brain injury from an accident, call now at or CLICK HERE TO SUBMIT A SIMPLE CASE FORM. Don't delay! You may have a valid claim and be entitled to compensation for your injuries, but a lawsuit must be filed before the statute of limitations expires.