There are different types of brain injuries, ranging from mild to severe. Severe brain injuries can occur in different ways, including closed and penetrating brain injuries. Closed brain injuries can occur in traumatic accidents, such as car accidents, and may be considered severe or mild.
Even if a brain injury is considered mild, such as a concussion, the victim may suffer a number of debilitating signs and symptoms. Symptoms of a concussion may be noticed and can persist for days or weeks, or for even longer, depending on the nature of the injury and the circumstances. Additionally, the recovery process can be slow in some situations and circumstances.
There are a number of different signs of a brain injury, including: problems thinking or remembering; sleeping; problems with emotion or mood; or physical problems. In some situations, symptoms of a brain injury may not immediately be noticeable and may be noticed only days or months following the brain injury, while others may be noticeable almost immediately. In some circumstances, a return to the demands of everyday life may cause the victim to recognize the symptoms of a brain injury.
Certain signs, such as: a headache that worsens and persists; weakness, numbness or coordination challenges; vomiting or nausea; or slurred speech, are all significant signs of a brain injury that should be taken seriously. Individuals may exhibit the following behaviors: look drowsy or cannot be awakened; have lost consciousness; have uneven pupils; experience convulsions or seizures; become increasingly confused, agitated or restless; demonstrate unusual behaviors; or cannot recognize people or places.
Following a traumatic accident, such as a car accident, victims should not ignore the challenges they face, which can include physical, financial and emotional challenges. It can be helpful for victims to become familiar with medical, legal and other options and resources available to them following an accident causing a brain injury.
Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, “Mild Traumatic Brain Injury/Concussion,” Accessed July 20, 2015