Anyone who has suffered a blow to the head, has fallen on his or her head, or has been in a situation, such as a car accident, where deceleration has occurred, should get checked by a doctor. Because the effects of traumatic brain injury aren’t always immediately apparent, it’s better to be safe than sorry. The quality and immediacy of treatment following a traumatic brain injury can have a significant effect on the survivor’s long-term outcome.
Symptoms of Traumatic Brain Injury
Symptoms of traumatic brain injury can be immediate, or they can appear after several days or weeks. Common symptoms of traumatic brain injury include:
- Headache
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Vomiting
- Vision disturbances
- Fatigue
Seeking Emergency Care
Any time loss of consciousness occurs after an accident, the victim should be taken immediately to an emergency room. Other symptoms that indicate emergency care is needed include:
- Convulsions
- Weakness and numbness in the arms, legs, hands, or feet
- Repeated vomiting
- Slurred speech