Traumatic Brain Injury

What is Traumatic Brain Injury?

 
A traumatic brain injury (TBI) results when a sudden blow or jolt to the head is sustained and disrupts the function of the brain and body. Due to the impact, it causes a person to struggle with cognitive, physical impairment, psychological, and sometimes even death.

The leading causes of traumatic brain injuries stem from vehicle related accidents, violence such as assaults and falls, and sport injuries. The Center of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), reports an estimated 1.5 million Americans sustain TBI yearly. As a consequence, 230,000 people are hospitalized and survive, while 50,000 cases are fatal. The remaining 80,000 victims suffer long-term physical and emotional trauma.
 

How is TBI Diagnosed?

In order for a physician to ultimately determine if you suffer from TBI, doctors will have you go through some imagining tests to refine their diagnosis. The two most common imaging tools that physicians use to diagnose TBI are a Computerized Tomography (CT SCAN) and a Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). A CT scan allows doctors to see inside a specific part of your body and is more detailed than a X-Ray. An MRI uses powerful magnets, radio waves, and make detailed pictures inside your body. Differences between normal and abnormal tissue is often clearer on an MRI image than a CT Scan.
 

Symptoms

The signs and symptoms of a head injury can be gradual and may not show up immediately. Evidence of a head injury can take days or even a few weeks after the incident. Here are the following symptoms that are associated with a brain injury:
Physical Symptoms

• Loss of consciousness for a few seconds or minutes;
• Seizures or convulsions;
• Constant headaches, dizziness, nausea or vomiting;
• Fatigue, drowsiness , or sleeping more than usual;
• Dilation of one or both pupils in the eyes;
• Sensory problems such as blurred vision, ringing in ears, or sensitivity to light or sound.

Cognitive or Mental Symptoms

• State of being dazed, confused, disoriented, or loss of coordination;
• Trouble remembering, learning new things or lack of concentration;
• Agitation, aggressive or unusual behavior;
• Mood changes or mood swings;
• Feeling anxious or depressed.

Although brain injuries may be common, the diagnosis can be complicated. Seek medical attention immediately upon suspicion or the beginning symptoms of a head injury. If you have been diagnosed with a head injury, rehabilitation therapy may be recommended to address physical, emotional and cognitive issues resulting from the TBI. Therapy can be brief or long-term, depending on the severity of the injury.
 

Consult with a Traumatic Injury Lawyer

If you or a loved one are suffering from a traumatic brain injury, contact the lawyers at Sweet Law Group. Treatment for brain injuries can add up to an endless amount of medical bills and permanent economic hardship. If another party was responsible for the traumatic brain injury you sustained, you could be entitled to a compensation. With over 44 years of experience in the legal field, we know what it takes to achieve the justice you deserve. Call (800) 203-3061 for a free, no-obligation consultation today!