Traumatic brain injuries, or TBIs, are injuries that cause damage to the brain and can occur from a simple blow, bump, or even a jolt to the head. TBIs can be a common result of many different types of accidents such as slip and falls or motor vehicle crashes. It is possible to have a full recovery from a TBI however more severe TBIs can have a serious and long-lasting effect on one’s physical condition and change the course of the victim’s life forever. It is important for everyone to understand what TBIs are, be able to recognize the signs that someone is suffering from one, and what steps to take when they are.
Below is a brief overview of what can cause a TBI and how to recognize if you or a loved one are suffering from one.
TBIs can be caused by either a penetrating (open-head) injury or nonpenetrating (closed-head) injury. Here are the most common types of Traumatic Brain Injuries:
- Skull fractures or the breaking of the bony skull
- Contusions which are bruises or bleeding on the brain. These can lead to hematomas (blood clots)
- Concussions
- Lacerations in brain tissue
How to recognize a potential Traumatic Brain Injury:
- The victim loses consciousness for several minutes or hours
- The victim reports a persistent headache that may or may not worsen over time
- The victim feels nauseous or even vomits
- The victim experiences convulsions or seizures
- One or both of the victim’s pupils are dilated
- The victim experiences weakness or numbness in extremities like fingers and toes
- The victim displays severe loss of coordination
- There is clear fluid draining from the victim’s nose and ears
- The victim is unable to awaken from sleep
- The victim displays profound confusion
- The victim is agitated, combative, or otherwise behaves in an unusual manner
- The victim’s speech is slurred
What to do in the event of a Traumatic Brain Injury:
- Seek medical attention. TBIs can worsen over time. It is extremely important to seek medical attention the moment you suspect you or a loved one are dealing with a TBI.
- Keep a record of the victim’s behavior and health immediately following the accident. This can help doctors with their diagnosis of a TBI and help attorneys build a personal injury case.
- If another party’s negligence caused the accident, then contact a personal injury attorney for help and representation.
Karns & Karns has a great deal of experience in representing clients who have suffered from a traumatic brain injury, and can help you as well. We understand the effect’s a TBI can have on our clients and their families and we will make sure any client of ours gets the settlement they deserve. TBIs are serious so don’t wait for your condition to get worse. Get our firm working in your best interests today.