TBI Signs and Symptoms

What TBI Looks Like

Not every brain injury will cause the same symptoms. Depending on the type and severity of the injury, various signs of the injury can appear.

Mild TBI

Signs and symptoms may include any combination of the following:

• Physical symptoms: loss of consciousness for a few seconds, headaches, visual problems, dizziness, noise/light sensitivity, ringing in ears, vomiting or nausea
• Cognitive symptoms: attention problems, memory dysfunction, “fogginess”, fatigue or cognitive slowing
• Emotionality: sadness, nervousness or irritability
• Sleep disturbance: difficulty falling asleep or sleeping less than usual

About 80 percent of people recover from the symptoms of mild TBI within 10 to 14 days, and 20 percent do not. Some people have symptoms that last much longer.

Moderate and Severe TBI

Signs and symptoms may include:

• Loss of consciousness from several minutes to hours
• Extreme confusion
• Slurred speech
• Weakness or numbness in fingers and toes
• Loss of coordination
• Persistent headaches
• Convulsions or seizures
• Dilation of one or both pupils
• Clear fluids draining from the nose or ears

TBI Symptoms in Infants and Young Children

It may be more difficult to identify the signs and symptoms of a brain injury in children because they lack communication skills. However, you should consult a doctor if you observe the following:

• Changing in nursing or eating habits
• Persistent crying and inability to be consoled
• Unusual or easy irritability
• Change in ability to pay attention
• Change in sleeping habits
• Sad or depressed mood
• Loss of interest in favorite toys or activities

Take this Seriously. Talk to a Lawyer in NYC.

Wondering what to do after a TBI diagnosis? Call my Manhattan office at 212-625-8030 or email me to tell me about your case. As an experienced personal injury attorney, I am committed to protecting the rights of individuals and family members of people who have suffered a serious head injury.