Traumatic brain injury is typically caused by an external force and is usually an acute event. Brain injuries differ from most other injuries in several ways. While most other types of injuries may affect one or two areas of the body, a brain injury may affect virtually every area of your life, physically and psychologically. Recognizing the symptoms of traumatic brain injury is not always a straightforward task.

Loss of Consciousness

Loss of consciousness is likely the most widely recognized symptom of brain injury. Upon injury, loss of consciousness may occur for seconds, minutes, hours, or not at all. Watch closely because sometimes it may be so brief it is not even obvious to the outside observer. After a head trauma, watch the victim closely for loss of consciousness, fatigue, or difficulty waking.

Repeated Vomiting

Many people vomit after suffering head trauma, and it may or may not be a sign of damage. If you vomit three times within 72 hours of a head injury, it is advised to see a medical professional for evaluation. Even if you feel relatively normal, repeated vomiting can be a sign of a skull fracture.

Slurred Speech or Changes in Speech Patterns

Traumatic brain injuries may result in cognitive symptoms, such as slurred speech. Listen closely for slurred speech, difficulty recalling normal everyday words, or inability to form certain sounds, or transposing words and sounds when speaking. Like most symptoms of brain injury, the effects on speech may be obvious or almost unnoticeable.

Clumsiness or Diminished Coordination

Clumsiness or diminished coordination may result after a head injury for minutes or days. It is important to watch not only for severe and obvious issues, but also subtle changes. If tasks that were once second nature are suddenly more difficult, seek medical evaluation. If your loved one was injured due to the negligence of another party.

The human brain affects virtually every single aspect of life, ranging from physical capabilities, speech, mental capacity, mood, and personality. Because of this, it is important to closely monitor every area when watching someone after suffering a head trauma.

The symptoms vary widely, ranging from severe to mild. They can show up differently in different people immediately after the injury or even days or weeks later. It is important to know some of the main symptoms and watch closely. Whenever in any doubt, seek medical advice. Early detection may improve the outcome, shorten recovery time, or even save a life.