Brain Injuries and What’s Next
Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) is caused by anything that shakes or jars the brain, causing tearing, bruising or or swelling of brain tissue. The result can be as mild and simple as a concussion or it can be more serious with long-lasting consequences. Most people recover with rest but a few are left with disabilities in movement, speech or learning.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimate that 5.3 million Americans are living with disabilities resulting from brain injury. Of these, approximately two-thirds of people undergoing rehabilitation from a brain injury have a history of drug or alcohol abuse.
The main causes of traumatic brain injury are:
- Motor vehicle
- Recreation
- Violence
Other, less common, causes of TBI include falls, bicycles and shaken infant syndrome.
Symptoms of TBI
Symptoms may last for hours, days, weeks or even months. They include:
- Confusion
- Memory loss
- Mini “blackouts”
- Headaches
- Visual problems
- Dizziness
- Emotional labililty (depression, anger)
- Excessive sleepiness
Diagnosis of TBI
Diagnosis of minor brain injuries, like concussion, are often clinical, meaning they are based on symptoms. If someone complains of headache, blurred vision and confusion following a recent blow to the head, this is sufficient to reach a diagnosis of concussion. Because there is a possibility for what seems like a minor injury to progress to an intra-cranial bleed, doctors will often perform a CAT scan or an MRI.
It is not unusual for someone to refuse treatment after a minor blow or fall. They may be embarrassed or in a form of mild shock. This can be dangerous, as the symptoms of a serious injury may not manifest themselves until several hours or even days after the initial injury.
Treatment for TBI
Depending on the severity of the injury, treatment may include medication, physical and occupational therapy, counseling or speech and language therapy.
Claiming for compensation
Recovering from a TBI can be expensive. There are extra medical costs and there may be indefinite loss of earnings. These can add up fast. If you or someone close to you has suffered an injury to the brain, a lawyer who specializes in brain injuries can help you prepare a claim for compensation.
Have you or a loved one experienced a serious brain injury? Call Randy Rozek today at 414-374-4444
