Slip-and-fall accidents happen quickly and often catch people off guard. Many injured persons get up, shake it off, and assume they avoided serious harm. However, some injuries do not show obvious signs right away, even traumatic brain injuries (TBIs).
Delayed or hidden symptoms may remain unnoticed
A major reason TBIs go undiagnosed is that symptoms do not always appear immediately. After a fall, adrenaline can mask pain and confusion. A person might not realize they have a problem until hours or even days later. Symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, blurred vision, memory problems, and trouble concentrating can start slowly and seem minor at first.
In some cases, the hurt person blames these signs on stress, aging, or just feeling shaken up. They might not connect the symptoms to their accident at all. Without a clear link to the fall, they may delay getting medical help. Unfortunately, untreated TBIs can worsen over time and lead to serious, long-lasting health problems.
Even emergency room visits can miss mild or moderate brain injuries. Unless doctors perform specific tests like MRIs or CT scans, a TBI might not show up. Patients who do not push for further evaluation can leave the hospital without a diagnosis, believing they are fine when they are not.
Injured persons should stay alert after a fall
Massachusetts experiences all types of slip-and-fall risks, from icy sidewalks to poorly maintained public spaces. Residents should know that any fall where the head hits a surface, or even sudden jolts without direct head impact, can cause a brain injury.
After a slip and fall, it helps to pay close attention to one’s body for several days. The individual can watch for changes in mood, sleep patterns, headaches, memory, or balance. Prompt medical care quickly and an early diagnosis can make a big difference in recovery.
Family members can also play an important role. They may notice behavior changes that the injured person does not recognize. Encouraging a loved one to get checked after a bad fall can prevent future complications.
Understanding the hidden dangers of TBIs helps Massachusetts residents take slip-and-fall accidents more seriously. Catching these injuries early protects health and gives people the best chance at a full recovery.