Closed head injuries are common in Boise, Idaho, but you may be left wondering what symptoms require immediate medical attention. Sometimes after a closed head injury, the victim can appear to be fine – however, you should never ignore these five symptoms of something more serious:
1. Weakness on One Side of the Body
Weakness on one side of the body and/or slurred speech could indicate a stroke. This is especially true if the injury damaged one of the major arteries leading to the brain. If the injured person is exhibiting weakness particularly on one side of the body, or is experiencing numbness on one side of the body, it is crucial to seek medical attention right away. If not treated promptly, brain damage from a stroke can be severe and in many cases, permanent.
2. Dilated or Uneven Pupils
Pupils that are dilated, and especially if one pupil is larger than the other, could indicate that the intracranial pressure inside the head is building. If the pressure is not quickly relieved brain damage, coma and death may occur. Doctors will work to immediately reduce the pressure inside the skull before conducting any other diagnostic testing or procedures.
3. Sleepiness That Doesn’t Improve
It’s quite normal for a victim of a head injury to be sleepy. However, sleepiness that continues to worsen, is accompanied by a headache or a person who is asleep and cannot be woken up is a sign that the damage is more serious. Call 911 as soon as possible if a person who received a blow to the head is not responsive or won’t wake up.
4. Severe Nausea and/or Vomiting
Vomiting after a head injury is common, especially in children. However, it is important that the vomiting does not continue. If a person who has suffered a brain injury is vomiting frequently and it does not subside quickly, it is important to seek medical attention promptly.
5. Unconsciousness
Getting “knocked out” after a blow to the head can indicate a concussion or other significant brain damage. The longer the person remains unconscious, the more serious the situation becomes. Someone who is unconscious for any length of time following a head injury needs to be evaluated by medical professionals as quickly as possible.
When to Call an Idaho Brain Injury Lawyer
Brain injuries can be life changing, and can create astronomical medical expenses as well as significantly affecting a person’s ability to work. If the victim’s injury was caused by an accident at work, on another person’s property, or in a car accident that was the fault of the other party, it’s important to seek the assistance of a qualified Boise brain injury attorney.
If you or a loved one have sustained a head injury of any kind, contact the Rossman Law Group for a consultation today at (208) 331-2030. We have the skills and experience needed to help you and your family seek the maximum restitution available. We believe that victims of head injuries and their families deserve justice, and we are committed to helping families recover after serious and life changing accidents.