The brain is powerful but also very delicate. It controls all motor function and cognition. The brain even manages subconscious actions, such as breathing. An injury to a human’s brain can cause an assortment of devastating consequences.
Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) caused by falls, car crashes and other incidents can forever change the course of people’s lives. A TBI can fundamentally alter a person’s overall mood or personality. They may struggle with decision-making or memory after acquiring a TBI. Brain injuries can affect motor function and leave people dependent on medical caregivers.
Given how serious TBIs can become, many people assume that they are easy to identify. However, many people only recognize TBIs after they progress to a dangerous point. Why do people overlook what could be a permanent, life-changing injury?
Symptoms take time to develop
There are many ways that people can injure their brains. A fall or blunt force trauma from a car crash could injure the brain. Oxygen deprivation and penetrating injuries can also cause TBIs.
In many cases, the worst symptoms of a TBI do not manifest instantly. Instead, they take days or weeks to arise. The brain injury only becomes obvious when the swelling or bleeding creates worsening symptoms as the injury progresses.
Healthcare professionals can potentially limit the progression of a TBI by intervening quickly after a traumatic injury. Modern technology can help diagnose TBIs that have not yet begun presenting severe symptoms.
People don’t know what symptoms to expect
Every brain injury causes unique consequences for the affected party. As mentioned above, there is a broad range of possible symptoms. Some people develop slurred speech or balance issues. Others notice blurry vision or experience a persistent sense of nausea.
The broad assortment of symptoms and their gradual progression can make it difficult for people to connect the symptoms they experience with the incident that caused the TBI. The possibility of overlooking symptoms is one reason why it is usually beneficial for those who fall or experience other traumatic incidents to see a healthcare professional shortly afterward.
Obtaining an appropriate diagnosis can have a positive impact on those facing a lifetime of medical challenges because of the TBI. Pursuing personal injury compensation is often easier in cases where people receive proper care shortly after getting hurt.