Understanding the Signs and Symptoms of Traumatic Brain Injury
Information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicate that some 1.7 million people experience a traumatic brain injury (TBI) in the United States each year. Most are treated and then released (about 1.365 million), but approximately 275,000 are hospitalized and another 52,000 suffer fatality. Early detection can sometimes mean the difference between mild and more severe injuries. Learn how to tell if you or someone you love has experienced a TBI, and what you can do after the fact to increase the chances of a full recovery.
Causes of Traumatic Brain Injury
One of the first ways to detect TBI is to understand how it happens. Most occur either after a strike or blow to the head, which might be experienced during a fall (the leading cause of brain injury), car crash (the third leading cause of TBI), or assault. However, contact with an object or a hit to the head is not required; some traumatic brain injuries occur because of jarring motions that force the brain to move quickly inside the skull. In fact, this is the same injury that happens to infants who suffer from shaken baby syndrome. As such, even those who have not hit their head in an accident but experience the common signs should see a doctor.
Signs and Symptoms of Traumatic Brain Injury
Of all the signs and symptoms, headache is the most common and noticeable. For many, it is a persistent problem that may not go away, even with medication. Dizziness, sleepiness, difficulty staying awake, nausea, vomiting, memory loss, and difficulty concentrating are other common signs. If you believe that you or someone you love is experiencing any of these symptoms after an accident, seek medical help.
Recovering From Traumatic Brain Injury
Even in cases of mild traumatic brain injury, recovery can take weeks or months. During this time, the victim may struggle with mood swings, depression, forgetfulness, difficulty concentrating, and even trouble sleeping. It is important to be patient and to avoid doing anything that is physically or mentally strenuous during the healing process. As the days and weeks get better, the victim can then slowly add new tasks into their life. If any pain or exhaustion occurs, return to resting.
It is also important to note that some TBI victims experience permanent damage. In such situations, returning to work may never be an option. For these victims, financial compensation can mean the difference between complete financial devastation and a life that is still financially stable. However, even those with mild injuries may be owed compensation if there is an element of negligence in their case.
Contact Our Aurora Personal Injury Lawyers
At Kinnally Flaherty Krentz Loran Hodge & Masur, P.C., we understand just how crucial a fair and just settlement can be for brain injury victims. It is why we deliver personalized, aggressive services to each one of our clients. Ask how our experienced Kane County personal injury attorneys can assist with your case. Call 630-907-0909 to schedule a free consultation with us today.
Sources:
http://www.ktuu.com/content/news/2YH-Signs-of-traumatic-brain-injury-419765803.html
https://www.cdc.gov/traumaticbraininjury/pdf/bluebook_factsheet-a.pdf
