You should always go see a doctor when you have suffered a blow to the head of any sort. Some symptoms of traumatic brain injuries that signify that you need emergency medical care include:
- convulsions
- weakness of numbness in the extremities
- repeated vomiting
- slurred speech.
The immediate effects of a traumatic brain injury cause bruising and swelling to the brain. When injured brain tissue swells up, it creates pressure. As the injured tissue expands, it pushes against the skull with increasing force and causes additional damage to the brain. The longer you wait to seek medical attention, the greater the possibility of worsened damage.
It is also important in the recovery process to follow your doctor's instructions and timelines to return to work, school or play after suffering a traumatic brain injury. You should never return to a high-risk activity like sports or even riding a bicycle if you have any remaining symptoms of a traumatic brain injury. Once your symptoms are no longer experienced, your physician will instruct you to gradually and carefully return to your regular daily activities.
Increased rest and limited exertion are vital on the road to recovery. If you have experienced a traumatic brain injury, you should take great caution in returning to activities such as driving, especially if you have problems with attention, processing speed or reaction time as a result of your injury. You should get plenty of sleep and take naps or breaks when you feel tired. The symptoms of your injury can often reoccur with exertion whether it be physical like running or exercising or cognitive like reading or writing.
You should not rush returning to work after experiencing a traumatic brain injury. An injury such as this can affect how you perform both physically and cognitively. Regardless of your type of job, you should take care before returning to your full load of work. You may need to modify your work day or work load as you recover. You may need a shortened work day or extra breaks if you get tired or your symptoms return. You should not drive, lift heavy objects or work with machinery until you are fully recovered.
Have You Suffered A Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)?
If you've suffered a Traumatic Brain Injury you should speak with a TBI lawyer as soon as possible. Contact us online or call our Charleston, South Carolina office directly at 843.488.2359 to schedule your consultation. We are also able to meet clients at our Conway, Myrtle Beach, Murrells Inlet, Mt. Pleasant, North Myrtle Beach or North Charleston office locations.