Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are some of the most severe and life-altering injuries resulting from car crashes. In Georgia, where congested highways and urban traffic frequently lead to high-impact collisions, TBIs are not uncommon. However, the symptoms of a TBI are often subtle or delayed, leading many victims to overlook the injury until it worsens.
Recognizing these overlooked symptoms is critical for getting proper medical care and pursuing compensation for your injuries. At Ashby Thelen Lowry, our Atlanta personal injury attorneys can help.
What Is a TBI?
A TBI occurs when a sudden blow or jolt to the head disrupts normal brain function. While some TBIs result in obvious symptoms like loss of consciousness or visible head trauma, others may present more subtly. Even “mild” TBIs, such as concussions, can have serious, long-term effects if left untreated.
Overlooked TBI Symptoms
The following symptoms are often overlooked or mistaken for less serious issues after a traffic collision:
- Persistent Headaches
It’s not uncommon for traffic crash victims to experience headaches, but persistent or worsening headaches may indicate a more serious problem. Post-traumatic headaches can result from brain swelling, bleeding, or nerve damage. Ignoring these headaches could allow a severe TBI to go undiagnosed.
- Dizziness or Balance Issues
Many victims dismiss dizziness or unsteadiness as temporary side effects of the crash. However, these symptoms may point to damage in the brain areas responsible for balance and coordination. Left untreated, balance issues can lead to falls or further injuries.
- Cognitive Difficulties
Problems with memory, concentration, or decision-making are often attributed to stress or fatigue after a collision. In reality, these could signal cognitive impairments caused by a TBI. Victims might notice they are easily distracted, forget basic information, or struggle with problem-solving tasks.
- Mood Changes
Emotional symptoms like irritability, anxiety, or depression are frequently overlooked as TBI symptoms. Family members may notice a victim acting unusually withdrawn, angry, or overly emotional. These mood changes can result from damage to the brain’s frontal lobe, which controls emotions and behavior.
- Sleep Disturbances
Insomnia, excessive sleepiness, or irregular sleep patterns are common yet underreported symptoms of TBIs. Victims may struggle to fall asleep, wake up frequently during the night, or feel exhausted despite sleeping for long periods.
- Sensory Issues
Changes in sensory perception—such as blurred vision, ringing in the ears (tinnitus), or sensitivity to light and sound—are often dismissed as minor inconveniences. However, these sensory disturbances may indicate damage to specific areas of the brain and should not be ignored.
- Nausea and Vomiting
While nausea and vomiting can have many causes, when they occur alongside other symptoms like dizziness or headaches, they may point to a TBI. Persistent nausea should be addressed by a medical professional immediately.
Why Overlooked TBI Symptoms Are Dangerous
Delayed recognition of TBI symptoms can lead to severe complications, including:
- Chronic Pain: Untreated TBIs can result in long-term headaches or other pain syndromes.
- Worsening Brain Damage: Without intervention, swelling or bleeding in the brain can cause further harm.
- Cognitive Decline: Delayed treatment may lead to permanent memory loss, impaired reasoning, or difficulty with daily tasks.
Additionally, failing to document symptoms promptly can weaken a personal injury claim, as insurance companies may argue that the injuries are unrelated to the crash.
How Ashby Thelen Lowry Can Help
If you’ve been in a Georgia traffic crash, seeking immediate medical attention and legal guidance is essential. At Ashby Thelen Lowry, our Atlanta personal injury attorneys understand the complexities of TBI cases. We work tirelessly to ensure our clients receive proper medical evaluations, document their injuries, and secure the compensation they need for recovery.
Don’t let overlooked symptoms jeopardize your health or legal claim. If you or a loved one has suffered a TBI in a vehicle collision, contact us today for a free consultation. Let us help you navigate the legal process and fight for the justice you deserve.