Car accidents are a leading cause of brain injuries. Head injuries that consequently lead to brain injuries can cause mild symptoms that fade away after a few days or cause long-term acute effects.
Below are some of the signs of brain injury you should watch out for after a car crash:
Concussions
This is one of the most common signs of brain injury. It is a form of brain trauma that is characterized by:
- Dizziness
- Loss of consciousness
- Confusion
- Impaired judgment
It is often caused by the sudden impact on the head or when the head and brain are shaken quickly back and forth.
Cognitive impairment
This is characterized by slow thinking due to brain damage. In addition, the bruises and swells in the brain may limit your ability to follow instructions. Depending on the part of the brain that has been injured, a car accident victim may also have trouble concentrating.
Changes in sleeping habits
After a car accident, a person with a brain injury may notice a change in their sleeping habits. They may feel tired and lethargic, causing them to sleep more than usual. Others may have a hard time falling asleep.
Emotional difficulties
The brain is responsible for processing emotions, specifically the limbic system. However, a car crash can cause damage to the brain and cause emotional difficulties. These may include experiencing unusual amounts of anxiety. In addition, those suffering from a brain injury after a car accident may be quick to anger, get irritated, and experience depression and sadness.
If you or a loved one has suffered a head injury during a car accident, it is imperative to seek medical attention to prevent the injury from worsening. You might also be entitled to compensation for your injuries, lost wages and emotional trauma, especially if a negligent driver caused the car crash.