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Is this a sign of traumatic brain injury?

When you suffer from a blow to the head, it is important to keep an immediate eye out for potential signs of a traumatic brain injury (TBI). Though some signs will manifest in swift and obvious ways, others may take hours or even days to manifest.

Knowing the red flags allows you to take quick action to get medical help, which is crucial when it comes to cutting down on lingering effects of brain trauma.

Fast onset symptoms

According to Mayo Clinic, traumatic brain injuries can manifest in many different ways. As mentioned, the onset is sometimes swift and noticeable, with immediate signs like loss of consciousness, confusion, agitation, the inability to process information, memory loss, and even bleeding or losing cerebrospinal fluid from the ears or nose.

Slow onset symptoms

Other signs will take longer to appear, or they may not seem threatening or worth a doctor’s visit at first. This can include headaches that worsen or persist over time, blurred or fuzzy vision, temporary states of confusion that do not last long, or trouble focusing and concentrating.

If left untreated, head injuries have the potential to worsen with time. This is especially true if the brain tissue swells, which may eventually result in it pressing against the interior of the skull and cutting off blood and oxygen supply to the soft tissue. This can in turn lead to eventual cell death and permanent brain damage.

Once you notice any signs of brain trauma, you should seek immediate medical care. This is the best way to ensure you have a chance at preventing long-term damage.