The Causes and Symptoms of Traumatic Brain Injuries
Your brain is one of the most valuable and important organs in your body. It is literally what keeps you alive. Sustaining an injury to the brain can cause much pain and suffering for you and unnecessary worrying and stress for your family. Traumatic brain injuries, also referred to as TBIs, can even end up causing symptoms that last for years or even the rest of your life. If you have sustained a brain injury from any type of accident, you should speak with an Illinois catastrophic injury lawyer to discuss your options for compensation.
Causes of Traumatic Brain Injuries
A TBI occurs when the brain suffers injuries from a violent blow, jolt, or bump to the head and can range in severity from mild to severe. There are various ways a person can sustain a traumatic brain injury. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), falls were the leading cause of TBIs and accounted for nearly half of all emergency room visits in 2014. Falls are also the leading cause of hospitalizations for TBIs, with motor vehicle accidents a close second.
Symptoms to Watch Out For
There are various symptoms that you may experience if you have sustained a TBI, both physical and psychological. Some symptoms can manifest right away or within a few days, while other symptoms might take weeks or even months to appear. The severity of the symptoms also depends on the severity of the injury. For most TBIs, symptoms to look for include:
- Headaches
- Nausea and/or vomiting
- Fatigue
- Sensitivity to light and/or sound
- Sensory issues, such as blurred vision or ringing in the ears
- Memory or concentration issues
- Trouble sleeping
- Out-of-character mood swings or mood changes
Severe Traumatic Brain Injuries
Even effects from a mild to moderate TBI can linger for months or even years after the initial onset of the symptoms. However, when your injury is extensive and you suffer from a severe TBI, you may even suffer from the effects for decades or for the rest of your life. Symptoms of severe TBIs are often more serious and could lead to long-term or lifelong issues with:
- Your behavior, such as issues with emotional regulation, depression, anxiety, and in some cases, even personality changes
- Motor function, such as issues with limb functionality and balance and coordination
- Sensations, like touching, seeing, or hearing
- Cognitive functions, like attention span and memory issues
Discuss Your Case With an Orland Park, Illinois Catastrophic Injury Attorney
If you have been a victim of a traumatic brain injury, the first thing you should do is speak with a knowledgeable Will County catastrophic injury lawyer. The skilled team at Schwartz Injury Law is here to help you understand what types of compensation are available to you, as well as guide you through the personal injury claim process. To schedule your free consultation, call our office today at 708-888-2160.
Source:
https://www.cdc.gov/traumaticbraininjury/get_the_facts.html