People should be able to recognize the signs of traumatic brain injury so they can obtain immediate medical attention.
Traumatic brain damage affects more people than one may think. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 30 percent of all injury deaths involve traumatic brain injuries. In one year, an average of 2.8 million people visit the emergency room, are hospitalized and die from matters related to TBI. Each day 153 lose their lives because of brain injuries. These surprising statistics show how common brain injuries are in Connecticut and across the United States. Whether people were involved in a car collision or a slip-and-fall accident, they run the risk of damaging the soft tissue of the brain.
What are brain injuries?
The delicate tissue of the brain sits suspended in liquid within the skull cavity. While the hard skull bone is designed to protect the brain, it can also be the cause of major damage. When the head experiences a sudden jolt or hard impact, it may cause the brain to hit against the inside of the hard skull bone. Depending on the severity of the impact, the brain can become bruised, inflamed and may begin to bleed. Even a slight impact or whiplash can cause minor brain injuries, which can also lead to significant damage and impairment.
Noticing the symptoms
Not all symptoms of brain damage are readily apparent. People will display a wide-range of signs and symptoms depending on the area of the brain that was injured and how severe the injury is. Mild brain injuries may cause persistent headaches, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, dizziness, trouble sleeping and difficulties concentrating. According to the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, moderate to severe cases of brain injury may show the following signs of damage:
· Sensory deficiencies, such as trouble seeing, hearing or communicating with others.
· Difficulties focusing, concentrating, problem-solving or organizing tasks.
· Seizures or convulsions.
· Muscle weakness or tingling in the extremities.
· Anxiety, stress, depression and other mental impairments.
· Memory loss.
Victims of brain injuries may have trouble communicating their symptoms. People who notice a change in the way someone is acting may want to mention the need for medical attention.
Treatment options
TBI patients should seek immediate medical care, as quick attention may lead to a better recovery rate and overall outcome. Patients may need a combination of speech therapy, occupational therapy, counseling, medical attention and rehabilitation.
Choosing an attorney
If you have received a brain injury as a result of another person’s negligence, you may wish to seek counsel from a personal injury attorney in Connecticut. People who have been involved in car accidents, premises liability cases or workplace accidents may be entitled to compensation for their injuries. A lawyer may help by answering your questions and point you in the right legal direction.
