Victims of car crashes frequently suffer poorly diagnosed brain injuries. The shock of the collision and the painful injuries to other body parts often mask brain injuries. Despite this, these injuries are serious and can put a person at risk for disability or even death well after a crash. According to the Brain Trauma Foundation, among adults ranging in age from 1 to 44, traumatic brain injuries are the leading cause of death and disability.
A brain injury can have a wide range of physical and mental effects. After the car crash, some of these symptoms may show up right away while others may take days or even weeks to develop.
1. Sensory
Sensory issues associated with a brain injury can include ringing in your ears, a bad taste in your mouth, blurred vision or alterations to your ability to smell. You may also experience heightened sensitivity to sound or light.
2. Physical
Physical brain injury symptoms that may develop following a car accident include loss of consciousness, reoccurring headaches, nausea or vomiting, problems speaking or ongoing fatigue and drowsiness. You may also experience problems sleeping, including sleeping more than normal. Problems with balance are common.
3. Cognitive
You may find it difficult concentrating or remembering things as a result of a brain injury from a car accident. Additionally, you may feel depressed or anxious and undergo dramatic mood changes and mood swings.
See a doctor right away about your cognitive, physical or sensory symptoms if they worsen. You should also seek emergency medical care if you lose consciousness or cannot stay awake.