Serious car accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, including broken bones and concussions. One of the most common injuries that arise from motor vehicle accidents is traumatic brain damage. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that car accidents are the second-leading cause of traumatic brain damage hospitalizations in the United States.
Some people, however, are not aware that they suffer from a brain injury, as the symptoms can be misidentified as another issue. When brain injuries are identified quickly, medical professionals can stop further damage from occurring. This can maximize the potential outcome of the injury.
What are the signs of a traumatic brain injury?
Symptoms of a brain injury vary depending on what area of the brain was injured, as well as the severity of the damage. According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, signs of mild brain injuries may include the following:
- Headaches
- Nausea and vomiting
- Dizziness and confusion
- Fatigue
- Sensory deficiencies, such as blurred vision or ringing in the ears
- Trouble concentrating or remembering
Moderate to severe cases of brain injury include seizures, convulsions, increased incidents of headaches with growing intensity, slurred speech, tingling in the extremities, muscle weakness and changes in behavior.
How do brain injuries occur?
The soft tissue of the brain sits suspended in fluid within the skull cavity. A sudden jolt or impact can cause the brain to hit against the bony skull, causing tissue damage, inflammation, bruising and bleeding. This can happen when the head hits the steering wheel, a side window or the back of the seat. Brain injuries may also occur if an object pierces the skull and brain tissue.