When you are driving or riding in a car, you face the risk of getting into a motor vehicle accident on one of New York’s roads, highways or city streets. Car crashes may have devastating consequences, including serious head trauma and brain injuries. If you experience moderate or severe traumatic brain injuries, some of the consequences may last for months or years.
The Mayo Clinic states that there are several symptoms that may accompany moderate or severe TBI. In the first few days following the injury, you may experience persistent headaches or even loss of consciousness. Other potential physical symptoms include seizures, nausea, numb feelings in the fingers and toes and poor coordination. There are also some cognitive signs that could indicate TBI: slurred speech, confusion, agitation and unexplained behaviors.
Moderate or severe TBI may also have long-term consequences. For example, once you experience TBI of any severity, you have a greater chance of getting TBI again. Severe TBI may lead to a coma or other consciousness issues. Vertigo and headaches attributable to TBI may occur years after the original injury. In some cases, brain injuries may affect the cranial nerves, leading to vision problems, dizziness, hearing loss and changes to your senses of taste and smell.
There may cognitive repercussions from TBI. Ongoing issues with memory, problem-solving and reasoning may exist. You may have trouble communicating effectively or reading social cues. Emotional challenges such as depression, anger and anxiety may occur after TBI, and you may experience insomnia. Severe brain injuries may increase your risk of Alsheimer’s disease and dementia.
This general information about TBI is intended to educate and should not be taken as legal advice.