Brain injuries can be incredibly serious and complex, resulting in permanent damage to an individual’s level of cognitive functioning. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 1.4 million people in the United States suffer some type of brain injury each year.
Brain injuries, also called “head trauma” or “traumatic brain injury,” take place when blunt force — such as a strike, penetration or collision — causes a disturbance within the brain. Symptoms may range from mild to severe disruptions of cognitive functioning. Commonly recognized types of brain injuries include concussions, closed head injuries (such as whiplash) and exposure to hazardous materials.
Symptoms of brain injuries
While no two brain injuries are alike, certain symptoms may be present in adults who experience them. These symptoms may include chronic headache, inability to focus, loss of memory, dizziness, fatigue, sudden changes in cognitive functioning, changes to mood or behavior, nausea and blurred vision. A common misperception of brain injury symptoms is that the individual must be unconscious for the damage to take place. However, symptoms may appear without someone losing consciousness, and can manifest slowly over a long period of time. When these symptoms are subtle, brain injuries can be difficult to diagnose.
If you or your loved one has a brain injury, or someone suspects you have a brain injury, it is essential to seek the help of a medical professional. Look for a physician who specializes in head trauma and who will be able to recommend an appropriate course of treatment. Seeking medical assistance also establishes a record of your condition should you need to seek compensation from the parties responsible for your injury.
If you would like more information on your legal options after a serious injury, consult the experienced Bradenton lawyers at Shapiro, Goldman, Babboni & Walsh.