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Understanding the different types of traumatic brain injuries

 

There are three separate types of traumatic brain injuries, and each is associated with varying consequences and effects.

Every year, many people in New York experience serious harm after incurring a brain injury. A traumatic brain injury happens when an external force, usually caused by a blow or jolt to the head or the rest of the body, disrupts the normal function of the brain. A TBI can also occur when an object penetrates the skull. Although no two brain injuries are the same, they are generally placed in one of three categories: mild, moderate and severe.

Mild brain injuries

The symptoms of a mild TBI can be temporary, and many people who incur this type of brain injury eventually recover. However, the time it takes for recovery varies significantly by person. Those with a mild TBI may experience a variety of symptoms, including irritability, memory issues, nausea, depression, anxiety and serious mood swings. Some other symptoms include headaches, fatigue, sleep disturbances, balance problems and a decreased attention span.

Moderate brain injuries

Moderate brain injuries differ from mild brain injuries because the victim loses consciousness for anywhere from a few minutes to a few hours. When the concussion lasts for a significant amount of time, which is generally a few days to a few weeks, the repercussions can last for several months or even be permanent. Those who suffer a moderate TBI are usually able to make a decent recovery and learn to complete tasks by compensating for mental or physical deficits.

Severe brain injuries

Those who incur a severe brain injury remain in an unconscious state or coma for several days, weeks or even months. This type of brain injury is also divided into several subgroups based on symptoms. For example, a coma, persistent vegetative state, locked-in syndrome or akinetic mutism are all different forms of a severe brain injury.

Encouraging recovery

There are several steps those recovering from a TBI can take to encourage the recovery process so they enhance their ability to eventually live a normal daily life. For example, brain injury victims are advised to get plenty of rest, refrain from activities that could result in harm to their head and only take medications approved by their healthcare provider.

Although many brain injury sufferers in New York do recover, others experience severe short and long-term consequences that affect them emotionally, physically and financially. For this reason, those involved in an accident that resulted in a brain injury of any type should contact an attorney in their area to discuss their legal rights.