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Traumatic brain injuries: What you should know

 

Traumatic brain injuries can cause various symptoms, and may result in permanent medical conditions or disabilities.

Traumatic brain injuries are one of the most common types of accident injuries affecting people in New York and across the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 138 people die in the U.S. every day. Approximately 2.5 million people visit the emergency room or are hospitalized due to an injury involving brain trauma. Brain injuries may occur when people are involved in a serious automobile accident or a slip-and-fall incident. In some cases, brain trauma can result in long-term cognitive damage requiring ongoing medical treatment, rehabilitative therapy and a total life transition.

How do brain injuries occur?

When a person experiences a forceful impact or blow to the head, the soft brain tissue may hit into the hard skull bone. This collision of tissue can cause brain bleeding, bruising and inflammation. Increased pressure in the skull cavity can cause even further brain damage, which in some cases, may become permanent. Brain injuries can also occur when the head snaps back and forth or if an object penetrates the skull and pierces the brain tissue.

Identifying the symptoms of brain injuries

The signs of brain damage vary from person to person, depending on the area that was injured as well as the severity of the injury. Mild brain trauma may result in headaches, dizziness, nausea and confusion, according to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. Moderate to severe cases of brain injury may cause the following:

  • Seizures or convulsions
  • Muscle weakness and tingling in the extremities
  • Trouble focusing, problem-solving and concentrating
  • Changes in mood, personality or sleeping patterns
  • Sensory deficits affecting sight and hearing

People who receive a traumatic brain injury may have difficulties returning to work or even performing everyday tasks. Not only can brain trauma affect a person’s finances, but it can also make a serious impact on a person’s ability to maintain relationships. TBI can ultimately change a person’s overall quality of life.

Treatment options

There are several treatment options for people with traumatic brain injuries. Immediately following the incident, medical professionals work to control bleeding, stabilize pressure and maintain the person’s vital signs. After finding the exact point of injury, physicians will customize a treatment plan that will best suit the patient. This often combines physical, speech, occupational and psychological therapy.

Discuss your legal options

People who receive a traumatic injury because of another person’s negligence may be able to seek compensation for their medical expenses, lost time from work and emotional trauma. An attorney in New York can listen to the details of your case and help you choose your best legal option.