Each year, an estimated 1.7 million Americans experience a concussion. These injuries, otherwise known as traumatic brain injuries (TBI), are usually caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head and range in severity from “mild” to “severe.” Lasting effects may include memory problems, mood swings, vision problems, and more. Moreover, these effects can linger for months, years, or even the remainder of a victim's life. However, improved outcomes have been found in those who are able to detect and receive treatment for their condition early on.
Recognizing the Early Signs
When auto accidents occur, victims may fail to recognize the immediate signs and symptoms of a traumatic brain injury. If they failed to receive medical care after that accident, their risk of having an undetected TBI increases dramatically. As such, victims should know and be able to recognize the early warning signs which can include the following:
- Inability to remember the events leading up to or immediately after an accident;
- Confusion or memory loss;
- Persistent headache;
- Nausea or vomiting;
- Dizziness or balance problems;
- Sleeping more than usual;
- Loss of consciousness;
- Changes in behavior, mood or personality;
- Slowness when answering questions;
- Difficulties sleeping; and
- Feeling stunned, dazed, or confused, disoriented, or excessively sleepy.
The Importance of Medical Treatment
Moderate to severe TBIs require immediate medical attention in order to prevent any serious complications. However, mild traumatic brain injuries usually only require monitoring and rest. Still, great care should be taken to avoid additional injury to the head during the recovery time, and it is important to follow all instructions provided by your physician. These instructions may include (but are not limited to):
- Avoidance of any physically demanding activities;
- Avoidance of activities that require a lot of mental concentration;
- Gradual returns to regular activities;
- Focusing on one activity at a time;
- Asking someone you trust for help with major or important decisions;
- Avoidance of computers and video games; and
- Not using alcohol until cleared by your doctor.
TBI Victim? Get Experienced Legal Assistance with Your Auto Accident Case
If you or someone you love has experienced a traumatic brain injury during an automobile accident, you may be due compensation. But, because insurance companies often attempt to pay out the least amount possible, it is important that you have a skilled advocate on your side who is willing to ensure the full weight of your condition—and the impact it has on your life—is factored into the equation. Our experienced Appleton personal injury attorneys and Green Bay personal injury attorneys at [[title]] are dedicated to aggressively representing your case. Call 920-739-7366 to schedule your free initial consultation today.
Sources:
http://www.wrcbtv.com/story/31829258/brain-injuries
http://ohiovalley.org/informationeducation/long-termconsequences/
http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/traumatic-brain-injury/basics/symptoms/con-20029302
http://www.cdc.gov/traumaticbraininjury/recovery.html
http://www.cdc.gov/traumaticbraininjury/pdf/BlueBook_factsheet-a.pdf