Long-Term Effects of Traumatic Brain Injury Are Life-Changing

 Posted on April 18, 2023 in Personal Injury

The brain controls everything from thoughts and memory to digestion and movement. Medical professionals and researchers still do not fully understand this highly complex organ. However, what is known is that an injury to the brain can have severe, lifelong consequences.

If you or a loved one suffered a traumatic brain injury in a car accident, slip and fall accident, or another incident, you may be entitled to financial compensation for damages. Expenses, including your hospital care, lost income caused by missed work, lost earning capacity, and other damages, may be reimbursable.

Physical, Emotional, and Mental Consequences of a Traumatic Brain Injury

Traumatic brain injury is a term that applies to a wide range of injuries. For example, a concussion is a mild form of traumatic brain injury. However, most concussion sufferers eventually recover completely and do not suffer significant long-term effects. That being said, there are people who suffer from post-concussion syndrome, which can cause ongoing physical and mental symptoms such as headaches and problems concentrating.

Moderate and severe traumatic brain injuries can lead to disabling symptoms that prevent a person from working or enjoying their life. Physical symptoms such as headache, dizziness, and ringing of the ears are often just the start of the problems for a traumatic brain injury sufferer.

Often, the cognitive, emotional, and psychological effects of traumatic brain injury are even more disabling. People who have suffered a severe brain injury may have difficulty making decisions, solving problems, and functioning as before the injury. They may deal with confusion, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating. These issues may require them to take a lower-paying job or stop working entirely.

Depression, anxiety, and mood swings are also common long-term effects of a traumatic brain injury. These psychological symptoms make it difficult to enjoy everyday pleasures such as spending time with loved ones.

Treatment Options for Traumatic Brain Injury Sufferers

Immediate treatment for traumatic brain injury may involve surgery to relieve pressure on the brain, remove damaged or dead brain tissue, and repair skull fractures. Medications such as antidepressants or pain relievers may be used to help reduce Some of the symptoms, but these medications typically cannot eliminate symptoms entirely.

In some cases, physical therapy, speech therapy, or occupational therapy can help a traumatic brain injury victim build strength and relearn how to perform everyday tasks. Mental health therapy or counseling may also help a TBI sufferer cope with the psychological impact of the injury. However, most people who experience moderate to severe traumatic brain injury are left with symptoms for years or even decades.

Contact our Orland Park Personal Injury Lawyers

Compensation may be available for lost income, reduced earning capacity, past medical expenses, and future medical expenses through a personal injury claim. Our Cook County personal injury lawyers can help you fight for the maximum amount of compensation. Call 708-888-2160 for a free initial consultation.

Sources:

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/post-concussion-syndrome/symptoms-causes/syc-20353352

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4677116/