A traumatic brain injury (TBI) can drastically alter your life. These injuries can occur after one simple accident and can either be temporary or long-lasting. Some TBIs may even result in death.
What is a TBI?
A TBI occurs when the head receives a violent trauma that causes bleeding, bruising or swelling in the brain. These can occur due to a violent blow to the head or the scalp being penetrated.
How common are TBIs?
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), each year, 1.5 million people in the U.S. are diagnosed with a TBI. Out of that number, 50,000 people die from their injuries. Up to 90,000 will deal with long-term disabilities due to their brain injuries. More than 200,000 people are hospitalized due to their injuries.
What causes TBIs?
Penetrating brain injuries are caused by various incidents, including:
- Falls
- Child abuse
- Explosions
- Car crashes
- Sports injuries
- Gun violence
- Blows by hammers, knives or bats
What healthcare concerns do TBIs cause?
TBIs can cause a range of medical conditions depending on the injury’s severity. Mild TBIs may result in:
- Headaches
- Confusion
- Fatigue
- Memory problems
- Trouble concentrating
- Dizziness
Severe or moderate brain injuries may cause:
- Seizures
- Slurred speech
- Agitation
- Vomiting
- Limb weakness
When should you see a medical professional?
Ideally, you should see a doctor any time that you have received a blow to the head. Even if you believe that your TBI is mild, you are still dealing with a serious injury.
TBIs may change your life
Your physical functions may change, but so can your memories and personality. These changes can be devastating personally, emotionally and financially. Legal options sometimes provide relief for the financial difficulties associated with loss of wages so that you can focus on healing from your injury physically and mentally.