The 5 danger signs of a head injury include a worsening headache that does not go away, repeated vomiting, seizures, increasing confusion or unusual behavior, and loss of consciousness or difficulty staying awake. These symptoms can signal a more serious brain injury and require emergency medical attention.
Other warning signs, including slurred speech, weakness, numbness, poor coordination, unequal pupils, or double vision, can also indicate a medical emergency. If you suffered head trauma because of an accident, seek medical care first.
A West Hollywood brain injury lawyer can then help you determine whether another party may be responsible for your injuries and losses.
What are the Warning Signs of a Serious Head Injury?
A serious head injury is not always obvious immediately after an accident. Symptoms can change or become more noticeable over time.
Five head injury danger signs that warrant emergency medical care include:
- A headache that gets worse and does not go away.
- Repeated vomiting.
- Convulsions or seizures.
- Increasing confusion, agitation, or unusual behavior.
- Loss of consciousness, severe drowsiness, or an inability to wake up or stay awake.
This is not a complete list of emergency symptoms. Slurred speech, weakness, numbness, decreased coordination, difficulty recognizing people or places, one pupil larger than the other, and double vision are also reasons to call 911 or go to an emergency department.
When Do Head Injury Danger Signs Require Emergency Care?
Call 911 or go to an emergency department if any of the five danger signs of a head injury appear after a bump, blow, or jolt to the head. You should also seek emergency care for other serious neurological symptoms, such as slurred speech, weakness, numbness, poor coordination, or unequal pupils.
Older adults require added attention after a head injury. Blood-thinning medications can increase the risk of bleeding in the brain following a traumatic brain injury, so an older adult who falls or is involved in a crash should tell the treating healthcare provider about all medications being taken.
If you are unsure whether symptoms require emergency treatment, do not rely on an online symptom list to rule out a serious injury. Seek medical guidance based on the person’s symptoms and circumstances.
Can Head Injury Symptoms Appear Later?
Yes. Some warning signs after a head injury may not appear immediately. A person may initially feel relatively normal and notice physical, cognitive, emotional, or sleep-related symptoms hours or days later.
Delayed symptoms can include:
- Headaches.
- Dizziness or balance problems.
- Nausea or vomiting.
- Vision problems.
- Difficulty concentrating.
- Memory problems.
- Feeling foggy or slowed down.
- Irritability or emotional changes.
- Changes in sleep.
- Unusual fatigue.
These symptoms do not automatically mean that a life-threatening injury has occurred, but they should not be dismissed. Contact a healthcare provider if you suspect a concussion or mild TBI, and seek emergency care if any danger signs develop.
What Should You Do After a Suspected Head Injury?
Your first concern should be the injured person’s immediate safety. Call 911 if the person has serious head trauma warning signs, including seizures, worsening confusion, repeated vomiting, increasing drowsiness, or loss of consciousness.
If emergency symptoms are not present, arrange for a medical evaluation when a concussion or other TBI is suspected. Tell the healthcare provider how the injury occurred, what symptoms developed, and whether there was any loss of consciousness or memory loss.
Follow the healthcare provider’s instructions during recovery. Symptoms that worsen or fail to improve should be discussed with the treating provider.
How Do Doctors Check for a Brain Injury?
A healthcare provider may ask how the injury occurred and review symptoms such as headache, vomiting, dizziness, confusion, memory loss, and changes in alertness. The examination may also assess balance, coordination, memory, concentration, and other neurological functions.
Is a CT Scan Always Needed?
No. A CT scan is not generally needed to identify a mild TBI or concussion itself. Depending on your symptoms and risk factors, a doctor may order imaging to look for bleeding or another injury inside the skull.
The appropriate testing depends on the circumstances of the injury and the findings from the medical examination. Your treating provider can determine whether imaging, observation, or additional evaluation is appropriate.
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How Can a Head Injury Affect Your Daily Life?
The effects of a head injury vary considerably. Some people recover from a mild TBI within a relatively short period, while others experience symptoms that continue for weeks, months, or longer.
Ongoing problems may affect:
- Concentration and memory.
- Work or school performance.
- Balance and physical activity.
- Sleep.
- Mood and emotional well-being.
- Ability to complete everyday activities.
Moderate and severe traumatic brain injuries can result in longer-lasting health problems and may require rehabilitation or ongoing care. The extent of recovery depends on the type and severity of the injury and the individual circumstances.
Can You Seek Compensation for a Head Injury in California?
If another person or business acted negligently and caused the accident that injured you, you may have grounds for a California personal injury claim. The available compensation depends on the facts of the accident and the losses the injury caused.
A claim may include losses such as medical bills, lost wages, ongoing treatment costs, emotional harm, and future problems related to the injury. Medical records, accident reports, photographs, witness statements, and employment records may help establish what happened and document your losses.
A lawyer can investigate how the accident occurred, identify potentially responsible parties, gather supporting evidence, communicate with insurers, and evaluate how the injury has affected you.
Talk to Omega Law Group About a Head Injury Claim
Recognizing the 5 danger signs of a head injury can help you know when emergency care is needed, but the effects of a brain injury may continue well beyond the initial accident.
If someone else’s negligence caused your injury, Omega Law Group Accident & Injury Attorneys can review the circumstances and explain your options under California law. Our team has more than 20 experienced attorneys representing personal injury clients.
We handle personal injury cases on a contingency-fee basis and are available 24/7 to receive calls from prospective clients. Assistance in Spanish is also available. Contact us today to discuss your case during a free consultation.
