In the aftermath of a car accident, the adrenaline often masks pain from some injuries. You might not even notice your injuries until the next day or a couple of days later. Never underestimate the potential for brain injuries following a car accident, even if you think that it was minor.
There are some common signs of brain injuries to be mindful of.
Speech symptoms
If you slur your speech, have trouble enunciating words or forget the words that you are trying to say in the aftermath of an accident, that often indicates a brain injury.
Coordination and stability issues
Since a brain injury can affect your equilibrium, you might notice dizziness, clumsiness and a lack of coordination when you stand up and try to walk. You might even lose your balance.
Sleep challenges
Becoming difficult to rouse from sleep when you were not in the past may also indicate a brain injury following a car accident. Persistent fatigue and difficulty staying awake are warning signs.
Disrupted vision
A brain injury can cause swelling, which can put pressure on the optic nerve. Trauma can also disrupt your neurological system. This can interfere with your vision, making it blurry, dark or even full of spots.
Mood swings
One of the most often overlooked symptoms of a potential brain injury is aggression or irritation. If you have become short-tempered, irritated or frustrated without explanation in addition to any other symptoms, medical attention is important.
Recognizing the signs of a brain injury is important because timely medical attention can contribute to the quality of your recovery.
