The emergency room doctor said you were fine, but you know something is wrong.
Perhaps you were in a high-speed motor vehicle accident. The paramedics checked you over and the doctors ordered your scans, but everything came back clear. Yet, weeks later, you still can’t shake off the feeling that something feels off.
Brain injuries, especially mild traumatic brain injuries (TBI) don’t always show up on emergency room scans. In most motor vehicle accidents, TBI symptoms often develop much later than the accident itself. Thus, you need to recognize these hidden symptoms before they get worse so you can protect yourself.
What happens when your brain gets injured?
A traumatic brain injury happens when a sudden impact causes your brain to move around inside your skull. This movement can affect and damage your brain cells, even without visible signs of injury on your head.
You can sustain a TBI in car accidents, motorcycle crashes, sports collisions or workplace accidents. The force doesn’t have to be too extreme. Even a seemingly minor crash or collision can cause your head to snap, creating the condition for the sudden movement inside your skull.
Doctors can sometimes miss these injuries as they focus more on life-threatening physical injuries. Additionally, TBI symptoms don’t always show up immediately. You might feel fine during the accident only to feel off a few days or weeks later.
Three hidden symptoms you shouldn’t ignore
Your brain controls how you feel, how you process information and how you take in your surroundings. When it gets injured the effects ripple through these aspects of your life.
Hence, you need to watch out for these three warning signs that your brain needs medical attention:
- Emotional outbursts that feel out of character: This includes increased levels of anxiety or depression, irritability or mood changes.
- Cognitive changes that affect your thinking: Some examples of this are inability to concentrate, forgetfulness and brain fog.
- Sensory problems that change your perception: This occurs when you experience vision problems, persistent ringing in your ears, sensitivity to light or vertigo.
These symptoms are signs that your brain needs to heal properly from your recent accident. The longer these hidden warning signs persist without treatment then the worse they become.
Taking action when something feels wrong
If you recognize these symptoms in yourself or in a loved one following a traumatic accident, then it’s best to take action immediately. Seek medical care and be specific about what you’re feeling so healthcare providers can get to the root cause of your symptoms.
Beyond medical care, consider consulting with legal professionals who understand brain injuries. They can help you access resources you need for proper recovery.
Your brain is your most vital organ. Don’t let someone’s negligence cause you pain and suffering. Take action today.
