How Long Can It Take for a TBI to Show Symptoms?
TBIs are unique for many reasons, including the fact that they can take much longer to present symptoms.
Traumatic brain injuries, commonly referred to as TBIs, are some of the most severe injuries a person can suffer in an accident. The serious nature of these injuries is not the only thing that makes them unique, however. Unlike other injuries, TBIs do not always present symptoms right away. In fact, it can take several days or even weeks for TBI symptoms to appear. After an accident, it is important to know the signs and symptoms of a TBI so you can seek the medical attention you need.
Common Symptoms of a TBI
The most common symptoms of a TBI include:
- Regular headaches
- Dizziness or a feeling of light-headedness
- Sensory issues, such as blurry vision, ringing in the ears, or a loss of smell or taste
- Sensitivity to sounds, lights, or distractions
- Feelings of anxiety or depression
- Sudden mood changes, such as becoming angry without reason
- Fatigue or drowsiness
- Difficulty falling asleep or staying awake
- Issues with concentrating, recalling events, or making decisions
Even when these symptoms are not present after an accident, it is important to seek medical treatment. The symptoms of a TBI sometimes do not present themselves for weeks after an accident. If not detected and treated early, these injuries may become worse and a person may even suffer permanent brain damage.
Long-Term Effects of a TBI
Just as the symptoms of a TBI can take time to appear, there are also long-term consequences of these injuries. Some of the effects accident victims may experience include:
- Degenerative brain diseases: Individuals that have suffered multiple TBIs, or a very severe injury may be at higher risk for degenerative brain disease, such as Alzheimer’s.
- Higher risk of death: The complications of a TBI, such as sepsis or dementia, as well as the higher risk of depression all give victims of TBIs a higher risk of death.
- Lower employment rates: People that suffer from a severe TBI may never again function as they once did, and that can result in lower employment rates.
- Reduced participation in activities: Individuals that suffer a serious TBI may never enjoy the same quality of life after the accident because they cannot participate in social activities and hobbies like they once did.
Not everyone that sustains a TBI will experience these complications. Most people recover from these injuries within six months.
Our Murrieta Personal Injury Lawyers Can Help with Your Case
A TBI can take several weeks to present symptoms, and even longer to make a full recovery. During this time, you may be unable to work while the medical bills continue to pile up. When this is the case, our Murrieta personal injury lawyers are here to help. At Gibbs & Fuerst, LLP, we know how to determine who was liable for your accident and will fairly evaluate your claim to ensure you receive the fair compensation you deserve. Call us today at 951-816-3435 to schedule a consultation with one of our skilled attorneys.