The brain is the body’s most vital organ. When you suffer from a traumatic brain injury (TBI), it can wreak havoc on all aspects of your life—cognitively, physically, and emotionally. Traumatic brain injury recovery is possible given time, rest, and rehabilitation. However, some people with moderate to severe brain injuries may face long-term effects.
The personal injury lawyers at Lerner and Rowe empathize with the pain TBI victims go through and are prepared to offer the highest level of legal assistance to those suffering from brain injuries. In this blog, our lawyers explain the causes of TBIs, long-term effects, and how we can help.
What Is a Traumatic Brain Injury?
Traumatic brain injuries occur when a blow or jolt to the head disrupts the normal function of the brain. This can happen when the head hits an object or when the brain rapidly accelerates and decelerates inside the skull. TBIs can range from mild to severe, and the symptoms can vary depending on the severity of the injury. Traumatic brain injury recovery will also vary depending on the type and severity.
A TBI may not always be apparent or accurately diagnosed immediately after the injury, but can result from any of the following:
The severity of a traumatic brain injury (TBI) can vary greatly, from mild to severe. In some cases, death is possible. Some people with TBI make a full recovery within a few days, while others may experience long-term or even permanent disability. After experiencing any type of head injury, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible for a proper diagnosis.
Types of Traumatic Brain Injuries
There are different types of traumatic brain injuries, each with its own set of symptoms. The most common type of TBI is a concussion, which typically has mild symptoms that last for up to 21 days. Other types traumatic brain injuries include:
- Moderate: characterized by a loss of consciousness lasting more than 30 minutes but less than a day.
- Severe: the most serious type of TBI and can result in coma or death. Victims of severe TBI may be unconscious for more than a day, and they may have permanent brain damage.
- Uncomplicated: does not cause any visible changes or damage to the brain. Victims still experience symptoms.
- Complicated: causes visible changes or damage to the brain, such as bleeding.
- Closed: occurs when an external force strikes the head without penetrating the skull.
- Open: occurs when an object penetrates the skull.
- Non-traumatic: occurs when the brain is deprived of oxygen.
The symptoms of TBI can vary depending on the severity of the injury. Mild TBIs may cause symptoms like:
- Headache
- Confusion
- Dizziness
- Nausea and vomiting
- Sensitivity to light or sound
- Memory problems
- Mood changes
Moderate to severe TBIs may cause the same symptoms as mild TBIs and more serious symptoms such as:
- Convulsions
- Weakness or numbness in the arms or legs
- Loss of balance
- Personality changes
- Permanent damage to the brain, such as memory loss, or learning disabilities
If you experience any of these symptoms after a head injury, it is important to see a doctor right away. The sooner you see a doctor, the sooner you can obtain a proper diagnosis and start the necessary recovery
How Are TBIs Diagnosed?
Traumatic brain injuries are usually diagnosed using a number of diagnostic tools. A CT or MRI scan can give doctors a better idea as to the type of injury the brain has sustained and whether or not there is active bleeding or swelling.
However, every brain injury is different. Even similar injuries can produce dramatically different symptoms depending on the patient. Someone who has sustained a serious TBI may even have no obvious outward injuries and show few symptoms initially. This is why it is vital to seek medical attention after any kind of head injury. The diagnosis will also help determine the proper traumatic brain injury recovery option.
Traumatic Brain Injury Treatment
There is no one-size-fits-all treatment, and a combination of therapies may be needed. Treatment for a traumatic brain injury depends on the severity of the injury and the individual’s symptoms.
The following are some of the most common treatment options for TBI:
- Medications: can be used to help manage some of the symptoms associated with TBI, such as pain, nausea, vomiting, anxiety, depression, and seizures.
- Surgery: in severe cases, surgery may be necessary to remove blood clots, repair skull fractures, or relieve pressure on the brain.
- Rehabilitation: this can help people with TBI regain their physical, cognitive, and emotional function. Types of rehabilitation therapy may include physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and cognitive-behavioral therapy.
How Do I Get Help With Traumatic Brain Injury Recovery?
A TBI can have a long-lasting effect on the victim and their family. Besides medical treatment, there are some other avenues of traumatic brain injury recovery that can be helpful, including:
- Support groups: talking to other people who have been through a TBI can be a valuable source of support and information. There are many support groups available, both online and in person.
- Education and advocacy: learning about TBI and your rights as a TBI survivor can help you advocate for yourself and get the support you need. There are many resources available to help you with this, including the National Brain Injury Association.
- Talk therapy: a therapist can help you cope with the emotional and psychological effects of TBI.
Contact a Traumatic Brain Injury Recovery Lawyer
The aftermath of a traumatic brain injury can be a long and challenging process. It is important to remember there is no set timeline for recovery but it is possible to make a full or partial recovery. Be patient, work with your doctors, and make realistic goals for your traumatic brain injury recovery.
If your traumatic brain injury was a result of someone else’s negligence or recklessness, a personal injury lawsuit may help you obtain compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Contact a brain injury lawyer at Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys today to schedule your free consultation.
Reach us by phone at 844-977-1900, speak with a live representative online, or submit the details of your case using our secure contact form.
The information on this blog is for general information purposes only. Nothing herein should be taken as legal advice for any individual case or situation. This information is not intended to create, and receipt or viewing does not constitute, an attorney-client relationship.