Brain injuries can have significant and long-lasting consequences for those involved. As such, any symptoms must be recognised and attended to as quickly as possible.
Understanding what to look for may just make the difference when it comes to someone getting the help they require before any more serious damage is done.
So, what are brain injuries and how can you spot them?
What is a brain injury?
A brain injury occurs when internal factors or external trauma damages the brain and disrupts its normal function. There is a common distinction between traumatic and non-traumatic variations.
Traumatic brain injuries can occur when significant impacts to the head cause lasting damage to brain cells and structures. Road traffic accidents, concussions during sports and falls at work are all common scenarios leading to complications with the brain. If you suffered a traumatic event at the hands of someone else, you’re well within your rights to consider brain injury claims with a solicitor by your side.
Non-traumatic events are classified as internal causes of brain injury such as strokes and tumours. These conditions can happen completely naturally and cause significant damage to specific areas of the brain.
How can you spot a brain injury?
Being aware of the warning signs when it comes to brain injuries is crucial to seek early diagnosis and medical support.
Repeated head injuries without knowledge of the impacts and consequences can lead to more permanent brain damage that has long-term repercussions for memory and cognitive function. Here are some of the key signs that someone may have suffered a brain injury:
Persistent and worsening headaches
Nausea and vomiting
Loss of consciousness
Memory issues and amnesia
Confusion and lack of concentration
Slurred speech
Blurry vision
Loss of balance
What to do next
If someone is exhibiting any of these symptoms after an accident, collision, or just randomly (without other explanations), it’s crucial that they receive medical attention as soon as possible. Any further impacts or damage can significantly worsen the situation and cause permanent brain damage if it’s not already been inflicted.
Prompt diagnosis and treatment are essential to managing any condition that has been caused by a brain injury. A qualified professional will be able to recommend the appropriate steps to take next, whether that be precautionary measures or more serious medical attention.
