The topic of traumatic brain injury has become part of our cultural conversation due to news reporting, feature films like Concussion, and television shows like Nurse Jackie. But many people still struggle to identify the symptoms of traumatic brain injury (TBI), which can be different depending on the severity of the injury and age of the injured.
It’s important to know that concussion symptoms are not always immediate. While some may appear shortly after a traumatic event, other aren’t noticeable until days or even weeks later. Also, the symptoms can be difficult to associate with traumatic brain injury, as they are similar to issues caused by strokes and other health problems.
Orlando personal injury attorney Jeff Badgley of Badgley Law Group serves plaintiffs with traumatic brain injuries due to accidents and medical malpractice, and offers the following list of concussion symptoms for those who are concerned that they or a loved one may be suffering from a traumatic brain injury:
Moderate to Severe Traumatic Brain Injury
- Loss of consciousness, even for a short period of time
- Headache that becomes increasingly worse
- Nausea, vomiting, convulsions or seizures
- Sleep imbalance: unable to sleep, sleeping more than usual, or inability to wake up
- Difficulty balancing and/or loss of coordination
- Dilation of one or both pupils of the eyes
- Clear fluids draining from the nose or ears
- Weakness or numbness in fingers and toes
- Unusual behavior: significant confusion, combativeness or agitation
- Slurred speech
Mild Traumatic Brain Injury (MTBI)
- Loss of consciousness, even for a short period of time
- Dazed, confused or disoriented
- Headache, nausea or vomiting
- Sleep imbalance: unable to sleep or sleeping more than usual
- Loss of balance
- Sensory problems: light and sound sensitivity, blurred vision, ringing in ears, bad taste in the mouth, change to sense of smell
- Memory or focus problems
- Mood changes or mood swings (manic depression)
- Depression and anxiety (including panic attacks)
Children’s symptoms
- Change in eating or nursing habits
- Irritability, persistent crying and inability to be consoled
- Change in sleep habits
- Depression
- Loss of focus
- Loss of interest in favorite toys or activities
Any brain injury is cause for concern, so if you or someone you know has recently experienced trauma to the head due to a car accident, fall, or any other type of accident, it is important to seek treatment for concussion symptoms immediately.
If you believe another person or company is at fault for the injury, it’s important to seek legal counsel. Orlando attorney Jeff Badgley can review the merits of your case, negotiate with an insurance company, or take your case to trial. Contact Badgley Law Group at 407.781.0420 today.