You had an auto accident with another vehicle a few days ago, and you think you may have a traumatic brain injury. How do you determine for sure whether you have a TBI and a potential personal injury claim?
Mayo Clinic describes how medical professionals test for TBIs. See if any of these diagnosis methods may help answer your questions and explain your symptoms.
Asking about the collision and your symptoms
A doctor may ask you what happened during the collision and the symptoms you experience. Do you remember losing consciousness? Did you hit your head, or did any loose objects in the vehicle strike your head? Did you experience jostling during the collision? Have you experienced shifts in your personality or coordination? These are the kinds of questions you should expect.
Glasgow Coma Scale
A 15-point test, the Glasgow Coma Scale helps medical professionals get an initial impression of a brain injury’s severity. The test involves moving your limbs and eyes and speaking. You receive a score ranging from three to 15, with lower scores indicating more severe brain injuries.
Intracranial pressure monitor
TBIs may increase pressure in the skull due to tissue inflammation, which may lead to brain damage. To monitor the pressure, physicians use probes inserted into the skull.
Imaging tests
Two imaging tests doctors often use to diagnose TBIs include magnetic resonance imaging and computerized tomography scans. MRIs use strong magnets and radio waves to create an in-depth image of the brain. CT scans involve X-rays that pinpoint bruising and bleeding of the brain, blood clots and inflammation.
You cannot afford to waste time if you think you have a brain injury. Taking quick action protects your health and your rights.