Did you know that traumatic brain injuries are one of the leading causes of death and disability in the United States? Every year, more than 2.5 million people suffer a traumatic brain injury, and over 50,000 die from it. If you or someone you love has suffered a traumatic brain injury, it is important to know about the symptoms and treatment options available.
What Is a Traumatic Brain Injury?
A traumatic brain injury (TBI) occurs when there is sudden trauma to the brain, affecting how the brain functions. This type of head injury often is caused by a severe jolt or violent blow to the head and often occurs due to a severe car accident, assault, falls, or any other damage to the brain area.
Suffering from a brain injury can severely impact an individual's mental, emotional, and physical well-being, making it challenging to perform even the simplest of tasks. Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are a serious concern, especially since they can often go undetected and result in long-term complications or death. The symptoms associated with a traumatic brain injury vary depending on the severity of the injury and are classified into three categories:
Mild TBI- An individual with a mild TBI may remain conscious or may lose consciousness for a few minutes. The side effects of a mild TBI may last a few days to a few weeks.
Moderate TBI- Individuals with a moderate TBI are more serious and require extensive medical treatment for their recovery.
Severe TBI- Similar to moderate, an individual suffering from a severe TBI requires life-long medical treatment; however, in cases with a severe TBI, it can result in an extended period of unconsciousness such as a coma.
Traumatic Brain Injury Symptoms
Suffering from a traumatic brain injury can be a devastating experience for the victim; it can impact their entire life, along with their physiological, emotional, and physical well-being. Symptoms of a traumatic brain injury can be divided into three main categories: physical, cognitive, and emotional, and these symptoms can also be dependent on the severity of the TBI.
Physical Symptoms
Headaches.
Dizziness.
Nausea and vomiting.
Fatigue.
Sensory problems.
Sensitivity to light or sound.
Seizures.
Blurred vision.
Dizziness.
Loss of coordination.
Cognitive Symptoms
Loss of consciousness.
Difficulty in concentrating.
Mental confusion.
Difficulty speaking or slurred speech.
Inability to create new memories.
Difficulty retaining new information.
Emotional/Behavioral Symptoms
Irritability.
Changes in mood or emotional state.
Anxiety or depression.
Lack of self-control.
Get Help After a TBI
If you or someone you know is experiencing any of these symptoms after a head injury, it is vital to seek medical help right away. Early diagnosis and treatment of a traumatic brain injury can improve the chances of a full recovery. However, even with the best medical care, some people may experience long-term effects from their injury.
Contact Chicago Traumatic Brain Injury Lawyers
At Angelini, Ori & Abate Law we understand the immense impact a brain injury can have on the victim as well as their family. Our dedicated team will provide compassionate legal counsel, especially when you are facing a crisis. If you or someone you love has sustained a traumatic brain injury, our team will fight for just and fair compensation for your damages.
If you or a loved one has sustained a traumatic brain injury, we can help. Contact us today at (312) 313-8881 to schedule a free case consultation.