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What are the warning signs of a traumatic brain injury?

On Behalf of | Dec 16, 2022 | Workers' Compensation |

A blow to the head at work can easily cause a traumatic brain injury (TBI). But whether or not you suffered a TBI is not always apparent right away. Every head injury is different. Only your doctor can diagnose you for certain.

Having said that, there are symptoms of a potentially serious TBI you should watch out for after a work-related head injury. These include:

  • Losing consciousness for several minutes or hours
  • A headache that lasts a long time or gets worse
  • Repeated vomiting
  • Clear fluid draining out of your nose or ears
  • Confusion
  • Slurred speech
  • Unusual behavior like agitation or combativeness
  • Weakness or numbness in your fingers and toes
  • Poor coordination

If you sustain a head injury at work, you need medical attention as soon as possible. Even if you feel that you don’t need to go to the emergency room, you should schedule an appointment with your doctor. Even a relatively “mild” TBI, such as a concussion, can cause symptoms that make working too difficult. You might have to miss several weeks or months of work while you recover. And a severe brain injury could force you off the job for even longer.

What if my employer rejects my workers’ comp claim?

Workers’ compensation can help make up for your lost wages and pay your medical bills while you recover. But your employer and their workers’ comp insurance provider might fight your claim. They might deny it or offer much less than you are entitled to under Pennsylvania law. Fortunately, you have the right to appeal.