Head Trauma: The Signs to Look Out For
Head injuries can come in many varieties. Sometimes, they can seem bad but no real damage is done. But other times, the knock can seem relatively minor and insignificant, but there still could have been some serious damage done. It’s important to know the signs to look out for if you or someone you know suffers a blow to the head. Here are some of the signs and symptoms that could suggest further medical attention is required.
Not Talking Normally
The way in which a person talks after experiencing head trauma should be paid attention to. Not talking normally is a sign that the head trauma was serious and needs to be looked into further. Slurring words and not quite being able to make sense or answer questions is a sure sign that something is not quite right. Don’t assume that this will pass with time because it might not. Instead, take action.
Hearing Loss
Hearing loss can be caused by many different things, and one of those things is head trauma. Your hearing system is located just inside your skull, so it’s maybe not a great surprise that it can be damaged when you sustain a head injury. There are many types of hearing loss too. You don’t have to go completely deaf to be experiencing hearing loss. There are variations and degrees of loss that can be experienced.
Imbalance
As well as making sure that you’re able to talk like normal, you need to keep an eye on your walking, or the way the person who sustained the injury is waking. Imbalance is a common problem people experience after suffering a head injury, and it’s a sign that proper treatment from a doctor would be beneficial. Pay attention to balance and whether or not it’s possible to continually walk in a straight line or not.
Confusion
Even minor confusion in the aftermath of a head injury is a warning sign that should be recognised and acted on. It’s not a good idea to write it off as a minor problem because confusion is one of the most common signs of concussion. And anyone who has been concussed by a head injury should be assessed and treated by real medical professionals who know what they’re doing.
Neck Pain
Even if you didn’t sustain any direct damage to your neck, you could still suffer neck pain after a head injury. This is a sign that the blow to the head you took could have been more serious and more damaging than you initially imagined. So don’t shy away from seeking the right medical attention if you notice a persistent pain in any part of your neck. It’s not something that can just be ignored after an injury such as this.
Head trauma should always be taken seriously. So, if you or someone close to you sustains a knock to the head, and any of the things mentioned above are experienced, be sure to see a doctor as soon as possible.
