With all of the press over the last few years, most people know that traumatic brain injuries are caused by violent jolts or blows to the head or body. However, what some may not realize is that any Brooklyn, New York, car accident, even minor fender benders, can cause TBIs which is why it is important to recognize the signs.
TBIs in children
First, TBIs after a car accident can be most silent in children, especially infants and young children that cannot yet communicate or who do not have the words to communicate. For example, even if a child has a few words, they may not know how to express sensory issues or confusion.
Signs of TBIs in small children
However, even if the Brooklyn child cannot communicate, there are signs of TBIs to look for in your little ones. The first is changes in eating or nursing habits, including not wanting to eat or nurse. Persistent crying with an inability to be calmed or consoled can be another sign. Additional signs also include, irritability, inability to pay attention or maintain eye contact and dilated eyes. Seizures and drowsiness can be common symptoms, as are changes in sleep habits, depression, mood changes and a loss of interest in their favorite activities and toys.
Adult symptoms
The symptoms for an adult New Yorker are much the same. These include nausea, drowsiness, headaches and fatigue (trouble staying or going to sleep). However, you could also experience blurred visions, changes in your ability to smell, ringing in your ears and a bad taste in your mouth. You could also become randomly dizzy, experience memory loss, confusion and disorientation. Other may notice behavioral changes, cognitive decline and other mental health issues.
Severe warning signs
There are also some signs that you or a loved one has a severe TBI. These include a clear fluid draining from your ears or nose, pupil dilation in one or both eyes, repeated or persistent nausea or vomiting, a headache that will not go away or that only gets worse over time and a loss of consciousness. If you cannot awaken your loved one, or you notice they are having profound confusion, become agitated for no reason or exhibit some other unusual behavior, they may have a severe TBI. This is why, after every car accident, no matter how sever or minor, you should always have everyone involved checked out by a doctor.