Have you or a loved one been involved in a serious accident that resulted in brain damage? Accidents such as car wrecks, boat crashes, surgery mishaps, falls, commercial trucking accidents, bike crashes, and motorcycle wrecks are some examples of incidents that are known to result in traumatic brain injuries, or a TBI. This is where an Orange County brain injury law firm can help.
What Is A TBI?
What is exactly is a TBI? TBI simply stands for traumatic brain injury. It is otherwise known as an intracranial injury. This refers to an external force that injures the brain. While a head injury can include a TBI, head injuries can refer to damage caused to other parts of the skull and scalp as well. Someone that experiences a head injury may not have a traumatic brain injury.
Symptoms Of Brain Trauma And Head Injuries
Sometimes the signs of a head injury and a traumatic brain injury are similar. Either way, it is recommended that someone seek immediate medical attention if they experience any of the following symptoms following force to the head:
- Slurred speech
- Inability to sleep or stay awake
- Dizziness or confusion
- Ringing of the ears
- Weakness or incoordination
- Change in the senses
- Neck or head pain
- Feeling nauseous
- Paralysis of any body part
Just as the causes range in a traumatic brain injury, so do the effects. Some people will experience a full recovery following quality medical treatment and therapy. Others will experience the long-term effects throughout their lives. It all depends on the severity of the injury.
Long-Term Effects Of A Traumatic Brain Injury
Here are some of the long-term effects that are a possibility for victims of traumatic brain injuries:
- Changes in social behavior
- Lack of social judgment
- Cognitive changes
- Inability to pay attention or process speed
- Deficiency in understanding, processing, and identifying emotions
- Paralysis such as paraplegia or quadriplegia
- Low sodium
- Anemia
- High or low blood pressure
- Skull pressure
- Memory loss
- Anxiety
- Moderate to severe depression
These are just some of the long-term effects and certainly not an exhaustive list. As mentioned, traumatic brain injuries range in severity, and one person may experience severe symptoms while another may reach full recovery.
When attempting to recover from a traumatic brain injury or lessen the long-term effects, you should listen to the medical professionals in your case. They will be able to assess your individual situation and make recommendations.
In general, here are some good pointers to keep in mind as you recover from a TBI:
- Only use medications prescribed by your health care provider and do not drink alcohol until your doctor has approved it;
- Be sure to get plenty of rest and don’t push yourself;
- Avoid activities that could potentially cause a hit to your head, such as playing baseball or riding a bike;
- Write things down if you find yourself struggling to remember things throughout the day;
- Stick with your treatment plan as determined by the professionals in your situation.
Hire A Skilled Attorney To Get Compensation For Your TBI
Facing the long-term effects of a traumatic brain injury can be scary. It can be particularly daunting if you’re facing costly bills from the incident. Contact a TBI personal injury attorney to discuss your case. You could be eligible for financial compensation for your recovery.
