Going through a motor vehicle accident can be a challenging and stressful experience, especially if you are hit by a large vehicle like an 18-wheeler. In addition to being able to cause a lot of damage, the image of the large truck moving towards you is not one that is easy to forget.
As you step out of the wreckage, you may feel lucky to be alive and too overwhelmed to assess your injuries. Initially, you may feel fine, but some injuries are easy to miss.
These are some of the most commonly missed symptoms of a traumatic brain injury (TBI).
Changes in behavior
You expect to be sore and stressed in the days after an accident, so it can be easy to overlook changes in your own behavior patterns. While the name “traumatic brain injury” suggests that it would be obvious, behavioral changes can be easy to dismiss as emotional trauma from the accident. You may start experiencing symptoms such as:
- Mood swings
- Exaggerated reactions to events and stimuli
- Uncontrollable anger or depression
These symptoms are difficult to detect because the responses make sense to you. In the days after your accident, ask your friends and family to talk to you if they notice changes in your behavior. Your loved ones are more likely to see changes that do not match what is normal for you.
Changes in sleep patterns
Sleep pattern changes are another symptom that is easy to dismiss. You went through significant trauma, so it makes sense that you might feel too stressed to sleep or you are emotionally exhausted and sleeping more.
If you, or a loved one, notice a change in your sleeping patterns, it could be a symptom that you suffered severe head trauma.
Getting prompt medical attention for a head injury is essential. If you are experiencing changes in your moods, behaviors or sleeping patterns, it is critical to talk to a medical professional as soon as possible.