A brain injury can be classified as mild, moderate, or severe and is a major cause of disability or death in the United States. They occur from a blow to the head or body, or from an object piercing the brain tissue. Mild brain injuries can result in temporary issues, while more severe injuries can result in long-term complications or death.
According to the Centers for Disease Control, about 166 traumatic brain injury deaths occur per day in the United States. Many different things can cause a brain injury, but some of the more common causes include:
- Automobile accidents
- Sports injuries
- Falls
- Assaults or abuse
- Self-inflicted gunshots
If you or your child has received a blow to the head or body that results in symptoms or changed behavior, seek medical attention. A brain injury in children can affect their development. Symptoms can be missed in older adults if they present as a different, previously diagnosed issue. Several signs can alert you to see a doctor.
Mild Brain Injury Symptoms
Some physical symptoms to watch for are dizziness, speech issues, headache, nausea, and drowsiness. These symptoms can appear even if the brain injury is relatively mild.
Sensory symptoms can include ringing ears, sensitivity to light or sound, blurred vision, altered taste, or the inability to smell.
Additional symptoms can include confusion, abnormal sleep patterns, loss of consciousness, depression, or memory issues.
Moderate To Severe Brain Injury Symptoms
With a moderate to severe injury, physical symptoms can include losing consciousness, ongoing headaches, seizures, nausea, eye pupil dilation, coordination issues, and the inability to wake up.
Cognitive symptoms may include confusion, slurred speech, irritability or unusual behavior, and even a coma. Some symptoms may not present until years later.
While preventing brain injuries is difficult, there are precautions you can take. Wearing a helmet when appropriate, buckling your seatbelt, and staying alert of your surroundings, to name a few. Substances that can alter your state while driving should be avoided. Brain injuries can cause ongoing issues for years and can be pretty complex. Medical expenses can add up over time. If you believe another party’s negligence caused your brain injury, you should contact a lawyer specializing in personal injury. A brain injury lawyer like one from Hall Justice Law Firm can help you collect evidence and ensure you are seeking proper medical attention. You may be able to recoup expenses, including medical treatment, lost wages, therapy, and pain and suffering. It is an important phone call that could make a huge difference in your life as a brain injury victim.