When someone is injured in a car crash or a slip and fall accident, or even as a victim of assault, they may suffer a traumatic brain injury or TBI which can have a significant impact on their health and well-being. Traumatic brain symptoms are not always readily recognized immediately following an accident, but the effects may become clear in the weeks that follow and may include cognitive issues, physical and sensory issues, and mood disorders.
Cognitive Issues Associated With TBI’s
Right after an accident injured parties are often disoriented, not fully aware of the toll that an accident has taken on their body. If they experienced a strong blow to the head, a skull fracture, or another injury to the head, they may find that in the days and weeks following the accident that they struggle to think clearly or process information. They may also have trouble communicating with others or experience memory issues or an inability to concentrate. All of these symptoms may indicate a TBI.
Physical and Sensory Issues
Weakness or difficulty with balance and coordination or impairments or changes to vision, hearing or taste may be signs of a TBI.
Mood Disorders and TBI
Following a TBI injury, victims often experience anxiety or depression, and sometimes mood swings signaling an inability to regulate anger and emotions. Someone who has suffered a head injury may even undergo a distinctive personality change. These TBI symptoms can make personal and employment interactions difficult resulting in economic and non-economic damages from loss of wages to failing personal relationships.
Contact a Traumatic Brain Injury Lawyer for Help
While a mild traumatic brain injury or concussion might result in short term symptoms resolving in a few weeks, serious brain injuries may persist for an extended period, wreaking havoc on a victim’s life. More than half who suffer a serious brain injury struggle to maintain employment and many will need assistance with their daily activities. Unfortunately, people who suffer serious brain injuries are more likely to have health issues including seizures, infections, and pneumonia as they fight to recover.
Because traumatic brain injuries are life altering and often require long term care and assistance, it is important to pursue financial compensation from the party or parties that caused the injury. McDonald & Woodward, P.C., represents traumatic brain injury victims and their families in personal injury and wrongful death cases. Contact us for a consultation at 563-355-6478.