TBI Assessment and Guidelines in Norfolk, VA

Part of what makes traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) uniquely difficult to treat is the fact that they are often challenging to identify. Because of this, it is crucial to be aware of the symptoms of brain trauma after an accident.

The best way to determine whether you or a loved one has suffered a TBI is always to seek professional medical attention as quickly as possible after an accident. Here are some basic TBI assessment guidelines to keep in mind that may help you determine whether you or your family member is in urgent need of immediate medical care. At Cooper Hurley Injury Lawyers, our skilled attorneys can advise you on seeking medical care and financial recovery after a head injury.

Physical Effects of Traumatic Brain Damage

When informally assessing a possible TBI, it is important to note that you do not necessarily have to experience a penetrative injury to the skull or even a direct blow to the head to sustain traumatic brain damage. Any impact or external force which causes the brain to move inside the skull could potentially cause damage with long-lasting and life-altering consequences.

There are various physical signs that you may have sustained brain trauma during an accident. Some of these symptoms indicate mild damage, while others indicate severe trauma that requires immediate emergency care.

Mild Concussion Symptoms

Mild concussions and TBIs still warrant medical attention but generally do not result in permanent harm if properly treated. Symptoms include abnormal drowsiness or fatigue, nausea and vomiting, difficulty balancing, speech problems, and headaches. You should take care to avoid activities that could cause you to sustain additional head trauma in the weeks and months following a mild concussion.

Signs of Severe Head Trauma

Anyone who experiences any of the following symptoms after an accident should go to the emergency room right away:

• Loss of consciousness
• Persistent or worsening headache
• Drainage of clear fluid from the ears or nose
• Weakness/numbness in toes or fingers
• Convulsions or seizures
• Repeated vomiting and/or severe nausea

These physical symptoms often indicate moderate to severe trauma that, if left untreated, could result in permanent disability.

Identifying Cognitive and Emotional Symptoms of TBIs

The cognitive and emotional effects of TBIs can be harder to assess than physical ones, especially since any traumatic accident can put you through psychological stress. Anyone who experiences substantial confusion, slurred speech, unusual agitation, or significant changes in personality after a head injury should seek emergency medical attention to address potential brain damage.

These kinds of changes can be even more difficult to identify in infants and children, many of whom may not be able to clearly communicate what they are feeling. With that in mind, parents should remain vigilant for symptoms like persistent crying; changes in eating, nursing, or sleeping habits; severe mood changes; difficulty paying attention; drowsiness; and loss of interest in preferred activities or toys.

Seek Medical Attention in Norfolk, VA to Discuss TBI Assessment Guidelines

Any time another person’s negligence results in a traumatic brain injury, all costs associated with medical treatment for that injury can and should be factored into an ensuing civil claim. It is always better to be safe after a traumatic accident and seek immediate medical attention. This minimizes the risk of long-term harm and could strengthen your case if you choose to pursue civil action.

A skilled attorney at Cooper Hurley Injury Lawyers could discuss TBI assessment and guidelines in Norfolk, VA during a free consultation. Call today to schedule yours.