Traumatic Brain Damage May Have Long-term Effects
Traumatic brain injuries affect a number of people in the U.S. who have been involved in auto collisions or other types of accidents.
People who have been involved in a motor vehicle collision, workplace accident or are victims of a slip-and-fall accident may receive a traumatic brain injury. In fact, these injuries are rather common in California and across the United States. According to data reported from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2.8 million people on average are hospitalized, visit the emergency room or die with injuries related to traumatic brain damage. Approximately 153 die from brain injuries across the nation every day. When people are afflicted with a brain injury, it is crucial that they seek immediate medical attention, as this may help reduce the long-term effects this damage can have.
How Do Brain Injuries Occur?
Traumatic brain injuries may occur anytime there is a sudden, forceful impact to the head, such as when the head hits into the steering wheel or side window during a car accident, or a person is hit by a fallen object. Since the delicate brain tissue is suspended within the skull cavity, a hard hit may cause the tissue to hit against the hard bone. This can cause serious damage to the brain tissue, such as bleeding, bruising and inflammation. As the brain swells within the cavity, more damage can occur. In some cases, the skull bone may fracture, and small pieces of bone may penetrate the brain tissue.
Signs And Symptoms
It is crucial for people to identity the signs and symptoms of traumatic brain injury so they can get the help they need. When left unattended, brain injuries can worsen and people may have issues regaining lost brain function. According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, these signs may include the following:
- Sensory disabilities, such as decreased vision and hearing.
- Difficulty understanding language and communicating with others.
- Mental health problems, such as depression and anxiety.
- Seizures, loss of consciousness and dizziness.
- Changes in personality, mood and sleep patterns.
- Persistent fatigue, nausea, vomiting and headaches.
People should keep in mind that the signs of TBI are unique to each case, depending on what part of the brain was injured, the extent of the injury, as well as the age and general health of the victim.
On The Road To Recovery
People who suffer from a traumatic brain injury as a result of another person’s negligence may want to seek legal counsel from an experienced attorney. A personal injury lawyer in California may listen to the details of the situation and determine your best course of legal action.