Recognizing the Early Signs of Brain Injury

Brain damage occurs for a variety of reasons. There are two primary forms of brain injury: Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) and Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI). ABI occurs within the body on a cellular level, such as after exposure to toxic substances. TBIs develop suddenly by an external force, such as a blow to the head. In many cases, an injury is preventable and results from negligent behavior. Knowing the early symptoms of brain injury can reduce the risk of further damage.

Injuries to the brain happen in a wide variety of situations. Although some occur due to uncontrollable illnesses, many brain traumas result from preventable behaviors. The three most common ways people develop an injury are:

• Automobile collisions
• Sports injuries
• Physical fights

Regardless of whether your injury is acquired or from a traumatic experience, the signs of damage to the brain are similar. Symptoms fall into four major categories: cognitive, emotional, physical, and perceptual. A few observable behaviors that may indicate an injury include:

• Inability to process and retain information
• Difficulties forming sentences or slurred speech
• Change in vision or other senses
• Balance issues
• Chronic headaches
• Severe fatigue (mental or physical)
• Seizures
• Sensitivity to light or pain
• Impatience
• Aggressiveness

If you have been in an accident with other severe injuries, brain injuries may go undetected. Broken bones and other types of physical damage are often more apparent than brain trauma. Unfortunately, the cognitive changes resulting from a brain injury are sometimes attributed to the stress of the accident or even as a side effect of prescribed pain medication.

The first apparent symptoms of brain injury are anxiety and depression. Long-term effects include physical difficulties and mental issues. Additionally, returning to normal activities too soon after an injury increases the likelihood of second impact syndrome, and if another injury occurs, more severe and longer lasting effects are likely.

If you suspect a possible brain injury, request a referral for a neuropsychological evaluation. Although the brain’s neuroplasticity often allows it to recover much of its original function through rest, in moderate and severe cases, some damage is irreparable.

If you have sustained a brain injury due to someone else’s negligence, it is important to seek legal counsel. Brain damage can have long-lasting and life-altering effects, resulting in immediate and ongoing medical costs, time missed from work, and impairment to your ability to earn an income in the future. Contact a San Jose, CA personal injury attorney today. Corsiglia McMahon & Allard, L.L.P. will work to hold the liable person responsible and help you receive the financial compensation you deserve. Start your journey to recovery today by calling us at (408) 289-1417 to schedule a free initial consultation.

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