Understanding Traumatic Brain Injuries
Many people who are involved in accidents suffer traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). Many suffer TBIs in car accidents, sports incidents, falls and blows to the head. Some people even intentionally suffer TBIs. Firearm injury is the primary cause of TBI-related suicides.
Most TBIs are minor, resulting in concussions. Victims tend to recover quickly from these. However, some TBIs are more severe in nature and result in long-term damage. TBIs can cause a variety of symptoms and may require various treatment options.
TBI Symptoms
TBI symptoms may not appear right away. The most common ones found in mild TBIs include difficulty concentrating, confusion, headache and blurry vision.
In some cases, TBIs can cause fatal brain clots, which is why it is important to seek immediate medical help. You should seek emergency care if you suffer symptoms such as slurred speech, a constant and worsening headache, excessive nausea or vomiting, lack of coordination, severe drowsiness, confusion or agitation, convulsions, seizures, unusual behavior, memory loss and loss of consciousness.
TBI Recovery
In mild cases, a TBI will often resolve itself on its own with a lot of rest. Pain relievers may be used to treat headaches. A person with TBI should be monitored at home for worsening symptoms. A person can return to work or school when their doctor deems it appropriate.
In severe cases, though, hospitalization may be required. A person may experience issues with thinking and memory. They may have problems with coordination and balance. Some have speech, vision and hearing problems. It is also possible for some people to develop changes in behavior and see a change in emotions.
A person may even be minimally unconscious or fully unconscious. They may even display inconsistent behavior. In these cases, recovery can take a long time. However, the most recovery tends to happen in the first six months. After two years, improvement is minimal. A person may experience some degree of disability and see small improvements over time.
The good news is that more than 90% live in a private residence (rather than a nursing home or group home). One-third are employed.
While medication and surgeries can help with treatment, many patients need some sort of rehabilitation. This may include physical therapy to help regain movement. Some patients also participate in counseling to get help with anger management and other psychological and emotional issues they may be suffering from as a result of their TBI.
Get Legal Help for Your Florida Personal Injury
TBIs are some of the most serious injuries a person can have. These injuries can last decades and affect a person’s entire body, causing physical, mental and emotional issues. These injuries are also very expensive to treat.
If someone caused you or a loved one to suffer a TBI, get legal help from the Tampa personal injury attorneys at Pawlowski//Mastrilli Law Group. We can assess your case and help you obtain the compensation you deserve. To schedule a free consultation, fill out the online form or call 813-242-4404.
Resource:
cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/68/wr/mm6846a2.htm
https://megajustice.com/know-your-rights-if-you-are-hurt-in-a-florida-boating-accident/
