There are many signs that can indicate brain damage. These include changes in cognitive function, mood, and behavior. More serious signs include seizures, paralysis, and coma. If you experience any of these symptoms after a head injury, it is important to seek medical attention immediately as brain damage can be life-threatening.
Persistent headaches
There are many potential signs of brain damage, but persistent headaches are one of the most common. Other potential signs include changes in mood or behavior, problems with memory or thinking, and difficulties with coordination or balance. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to see a doctor as soon as possible for a proper diagnosis.
Extreme physical fatigue
Extreme physical fatigue can be a sign of brain damage. The person may feel excessively tired, even after resting or sleeping. They may have difficulty concentrating and find it hard to perform simple tasks. Physical fatigue can also lead to moodiness, irritability, and depression. In severe cases, the person may lose consciousness or enter a coma.
Paralysis
When paralysis affects only one side of the body, it is called hemiplegia. When it affects both sides, it is called diplegia. Paralysis that affects all four limbs is known as quadriplegia.
There are many causes of paralysis, including trauma (such as a spinal cord injury), stroke, polio, cerebral palsy, and Lou Gehrig’s disease (ALS). Treatment depends on the cause of paralysis and may include physical therapy, medications, surgery, and/or assistive devices such as braces or wheelchairs.
Tremors
Tremors are usually characterized by involuntary, rhythmic muscle movements. They can affect any part of the body, but are most often seen in the hands and arms. Tremors can vary in intensity from mild to severe. In some cases, they may be so severe that they interfere with daily activities such as eating or writing.
Most tremors are not painful, but they can be annoying and disruptive. If you have a tremor that is affecting your quality of life, there are treatments available that can help lessen its severity.
Seizures
Seizures can occur in anyone, but they are more common in people who have had a head injury, stroke, or other form of brain damage. Seizures can also be caused by certain medical conditions, such as epilepsy or Alzheimer’s disease.
Most seizures do not require medical treatment and will go away on their own. However, if you experience repeated seizures or if they last for more than five minutes, you should seek medical help immediately as this could be a sign of a more serious condition.
Sensitivity to light
If you experience sensitivity to light after sustaining a head injury, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. While most cases of sensitivity to light are not serious, it can be a sign of more serious problems such as bleeding in the brain or skull fractures. If you experience any other symptoms along with your sensitivity to light, such as headache, nausea, vomiting, or dizziness, it is also important to seek medical attention right away.