Being anxious about your aging mother’s desire to live alone is normal. You are worried that she is taking too many risks. She recently suffered a fall while walking to the car, and now you’re noticing that something is a little off. She didn’t have any noticeable injuries, except for a bump on the back of her head. The signs and symptoms of a mild traumatic brain injury can be far-ranging, and the damage may be far-reaching.
1. Sensory Function
Have you noticed that your mother is having a difficult time reading since the fall? Blurry vision may be caused by a head injury, even a minor one. Sensitivity to noise and light may also occur. Other symptoms include a sour taste in the mouth, a change in the sense of smell and a ringing in the ears.
2. Physical Function
The most obvious signs of a head injury are the ones you can observe. If you notice your mom is having difficulty speaking or her words seemed slurred, there’s a chance that she could have something more serious going on. Other physical symptoms to be aware of include headaches, sleep changes (too much or too little), dizziness and nausea with or without vomiting.
3. Cognitive Function
Your mom experiences memory issues, however, after the fall, have these instances become more frequent? Memory problems are one cognitive indication that the fall may have done some damage. If your mom also has problems focusing, or if she is suddenly anxious or depressed, her brain may have suffered an injury.
It is always a good idea to have your aging parent checked out by a doctor after any type of fall, even something minor. Remember to note any changes your mom has mentioned or you have observed. This information can help the doctor make an informed diagnosis.