How to Identify a Serious Head Injury

Head injuries can vary significantly in severity, ranging from minor concussions to life-threatening trauma. While some injuries might present immediate and obvious symptoms, others can be subtle but equally dangerous. Recognising the signs of a serious head injury is crucial for ensuring prompt medical attention, which can significantly impact recovery outcomes.

At Marley Solicitors, we understand the devastating effects a serious head injury can have on individuals and their families. We pledge to provide unwavering support to individuals impacted by these injuries, assisting them in obtaining the necessary compensation and care to reconstruct their lives.

Understanding Head Injuries

A head injury refers to any trauma to the skull, brain, or scalp. Typically, we categorise these injuries as either open, where the skull fractures or penetrates, or closed, where the skull remains intact. Serious head injuries often involve damage to the brain, which can lead to long-term physical, cognitive, and emotional impairments.

These are the most common types of serious head injuries.

• Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI): This includes concussions, contusions, and more severe injuries such as diffuse axonal injuries or haemorrhages.
• Skull Fractures: Breaks in the skull bone, which can damage underlying brain tissue.
• Intracranial hemorrhages refers to bleeding that occurs within the brain or surrounding tissues, such as a subdural or epidural hemorrhage.

Common Causes of Head Injuries

Head injuries can occur in various situations, often due to accidents or acts of negligence. Common causes include:

• Road Traffic Accidents: Collisions involving cars, motorcycles, bicycles, or pedestrians frequently result in head trauma due to the force of impact.
• Falls: Slips, trips, or falls from heights are a leading cause of head injuries, particularly among the elderly and children.
• Workplace Accidents: Unsafe environments, particularly in industries like construction, can lead to head trauma from falling objects or equipment malfunctions.
• Assaults: Violent attacks can cause blunt force trauma or penetrating head injuries.
• Sports Injuries: Contact sports or activities with a risk of falling, such as cycling or horse riding, can result in significant head trauma.

Signs of a Serious Head Injury

Identifying a serious head injury can be challenging, especially when symptoms are delayed or subtle. However, certain signs indicate the need for immediate medical attention:

1. Loss of Consciousness

• Any period of unconsciousness, even brief, is a red flag. It suggests potential brain trauma, which requires urgent evaluation.

2. Persistent Headache

• Severe or worsening headaches that do not subside with rest or pain relief may indicate increased intracranial pressure or bleeding.

3. Nausea and Vomiting

• Repeated vomiting after a head injury can signal brain swelling or pressure.

4. Dizziness and Balance Issues

• Difficulty maintaining balance, feeling dizzy, or unsteady walking may indicate damage to the brain or inner ear.

5. Confusion or Memory Loss

• Difficulty remembering the events leading up to or after the injury, as well as confusion or disorientation are concerning signs of brain injury.

6. Seizures

• A seizure following a head injury is a medical emergency and indicates abnormal brain activity.

7. Vision Problems

• Blurred vision, double vision, or sensitivity to light can occur with brain injuries and require immediate medical attention.

8. Unequal Pupil Sizes

• One pupil being larger than the other may indicate brain pressure from swelling or bleeding.

There is a clear fluid leaking from the nose or the ears.

• This could be cerebrospinal fluid, a sign of a skull fracture or significant brain trauma.

10. Behavioural or Emotional Changes

• Sudden mood swings, irritability, or uncharacteristic behaviour may result from damage to parts of the brain that control emotions and behaviour.

What to Do If You Suspect a Serious Head Injury

If you or someone else has suffered a head injury, take the following steps:

1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Call emergency services if the injury is severe or symptoms suggest serious trauma. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications.
2. Avoid Moving the Injured Person: Unless there is immediate danger, do not move someone with a head injury. They may also have a spinal injury, and improper movement could worsen their condition.
3. Monitor Symptoms: Monitor the injured person and note any changes in their condition, such as increased drowsiness, confusion, or worsening symptoms.
4. Provide First Aid: If there is bleeding, apply gentle pressure with a clean cloth. Do not attempt to remove any objects embedded in the skull.

Legal Implications of Serious Head Injuries

Serious head injuries often result from accidents or incidents caused by someone else’s negligence. In such cases, victims may be entitled to compensation for

• Medical costs include hospital stays, surgeries, and rehabilitation.
• Loss of Income: Compensation for lost wages and future earning capacity.
• The concept of Pain and Suffering involves acknowledging the physical and emotional toll of the injury.
• Care and Support Needs: This includes covering the cost of carers, home adaptations, or specialised equipment.

At Marley Solicitors, we specialise in helping victims of serious head injuries navigate the legal process. We provide compassionate, expert guidance to ensure you receive the support and financial compensation you deserve.

How Marley Solicitors Can Help

Our experienced team understands the complexities of serious head injury claims. We take a tailored approach to every case, working closely with medical professionals to build strong evidence and secure maximum compensation for our clients.

We operate on a no-win, no-fee basis, ensuring there’s no financial risk to you. This allows you to focus on recovery while we handle the legal challenges.

Taking the Next Step

If you or a loved one has suffered a serious head injury, don’t wait to seek advice. Contact Marley Solicitors today for a free, no-obligation consultation. Let us help you obtain the justice and resources needed to move forward with your life.

At Marley Solicitors, our commitment is to support you at every stage of this demanding journey. Reach out to us today and take the first step towards rebuilding your future.