Common Causes of Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
Every year, thousands of people are injured and suffer traumatic brain injuries as a result of accidents or deliberate acts. Traumatic brain injuries can be mild, such as a concussion, but may also lead to a lifetime of paralysis, personality disorders and psychological problems. Some of the most common causes of traumatic brain injuries, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, include:
- Car accidents – These are the third leading cause of traumatic brain injuries. The CDC estimates more than 240,000 victims suffered TBIs as a result of automobile accidents between 2006 and 2010.
- Falls – More than 600,000 victims suffered TBIs as a result of falls. In some cases, these victims may have fallen at job sites, on unsafe staircases or, in some cases, at home.
- Assaults – An estimated 200,000 people suffered TBIs as the result of assaults. This type of deliberate act can entitle a victim to recourse through a civil suit brought by a brain injury attorney.
Symptoms of traumatic brain injury
Symptoms may vary greatly depending on the severity and location of the injury sustained. Victims of mild TBIs may suffer headaches, vomiting and nausea. Victims of more serious brain injuries may suffer from seizures, weakness in the limbs and even paralysis. Victims could show early symptoms of personality problems as well as slurred speech. Unfortunately, an estimated 5,000 people die annually from the injuries they sustained after an incident that resulted in TBI. Approximately 275,000 are hospitalized annually. .
Treating traumatic brain injury
Medical attention is required any time someone shows signs of traumatic brain injury. In some cases it is possible that rest may allow the brain to heal. Other cases may require some of the following treatments:
- X-rays and CAT scans – In nearly all cases, victims will receive scanning tests to determine the severity of their injuries and to visualize any breaks in bones or instability in the spine.
- Physical therapy – Depending on the severity of their TBIs, victims may require long-term physical therapy to help them walk again or to regain full use of their hands or arms.
- Speech therapy – It is not uncommon for some victims to require speech therapy as a result of injury to the brain.
- Other – In severe cases of TBI, patients may need long-term psychiatric and social support, as well as physical care if they are left paralyzed.
Over the long-term, some victims of TBI find they are unable to return to full time employment. Some suffer brain injury that can manifest in personality changes, including feelings of paranoia and unwarranted fear. If you or someone you love has suffered a traumatic brain injury, you may be facing long recuperation periods, time missed from work and mounting medical bills. If we can help, contact us at Fales & Fales, P.A., to determine what compensation you may be entitled to. We never charge you for a consultation on a brain injury case, and if we cannot reach a monetary settlement on your behalf, we collect no fee.
Traumatic Brain Injury Links
Brain Injury Association of America
General information on brain injury and brain injury awareness.
Brain Trauma Foundation
Excellent site with articles, news, education, research, and books on brain injury.