An accident or injury can leave your loved one with serious physical damage that includes traumatic brain injury (TBI). There are over 200,000 new cases of TBI each year in the US, and more than one million people live with this disorder.
The symptoms of a mild TBI can be difficult to spot, especially if you don’t know what to look for. That’s why it’s important to see a doctor for any head injury. The following signs indicate a moderate or severe case of TBI:
- Loss of consciousness that lasts from a few minutes to several hours
- Dilated pupils
- Persistent, severe headaches
- Repeated nausea and vomiting
- Loss of coordination
- Seizures or uncontrollable shaking
- Confusion and forgetfulness
- Slurred speech
These are the most frequent and easily observed symptoms. Some symptoms may not show up for days or even weeks. If you see anything that concerns you, especially if you notice changes in mood, sleep habits, or thinking, contact a medical professional immediately.
TBI Is Serious
The term TBI refers to any injury that destroys your brain cells or damages their ability to function. Cases of TBI can range from mild concussions that only need a few days of rest to lifelong disabilities that cause paralysis, strokes, and epilepsy.
Always take any chance of brain damage seriously. Get a medical diagnosis as soon as possible. Consult a brain injury attorney if your doctor diagnoses a TBI.
What Causes TBI?
A TBI results from blunt force or extreme shaking and jolting. Anything that causes the brain to slam into the skull will damage brain cells. Objects that pierce the skull can also cause brain injury. The primary causes of TBI are:
- Slips and falls
- Car accidents
- Violent assaults
- Explosions
- Sports injuries
Types of TBI
When making a diagnosis, a doctor will use the terms “mild,” “moderate,” and “severe” to indicate how much damage the brain has sustained. Even a mild brain injury is an extremely serious condition that requires immediate medical care.
Get a doctor’s diagnosis before you contact a brain injury attorney. Your attorney will need to know the full extent of the damage you or your loved one has suffered. Some lawyers will be able to help you get treatment.
Treatments for TBI
Treating TBI often requires intensive rehabilitation, long-term use of medications, and surgery. Some people with mild TBI can show marked improvement, but it’s impossible to repair damage to brain cells.
Here is an intriguing article on brain mapping.
Long-Term Effects of TBI
The effects of moderate or severe TBI last a long time. Many changes are permanent.
Cognitive problems
TBI causes difficulties with reading and writing. People with TBI may have difficulty organizing their thoughts or following conversations.
Communication problems
People with TBI may find it difficult to speak or write. They may also have trouble remembering words or understanding what’s appropriate to say in a certain setting.
Behavior problems
People with TBI often engage in high-risk behaviors, have verbal outbursts, or otherwise act without self-control.
Emotional problems
Depression, anxiety and anger problems can all accompany TBI.
Diagnosing TBI in Children
It’s hard to diagnose a TBI in young children who can’t speak. Persistent crying, inability to sleep, seizures, loss of interest in favorite toys, depressed mood and changes in eating habits can all signal that something is wrong.
Can You Get Compensation for a TBI?
You can be compensated if your injury was caused by someone else’s negligence. If you file a civil suit, your compensation may include medical costs, rehabilitation, lost wages, loss of consortium, in-home care, medical supplies, and more. Your lawyer can explain the details of your lawsuit and what the law might entitle you to receive. You can follow this link to learn more from a brain injury attorney.
