The Permanent Effects of Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
When accidents happen, the people of Kirkland, WA know that they can count on the attorneys of Quick Law Group, PLLC. Our law firm has helped countless households in the greater Seattle area with all manner of civil litigation needs, serving as strong advocates for accident victims and their loved ones.
Some of the most heartrending cases we’ve seen involve a traumatic brain injury (TBI) of some form. Suffering a major blow to the head can have permanent effects on a person’s mental and physical health. Let’s consider the lasting, lifelong impact of a TBI.
Major Head Injuries Have Repercussions
A single concussion may seem relatively minor, but even a mild concussion can have a lasting impact on your life and overall wellness. Any time your brain suffers trauma or is deprived of oxygen, it can lead to a number of lasting effects.
If you have suffered a concussion, a brain contusion, a penetrating head injury, or an anoxic brain injury, you will likely undergo regular medical monitoring of your brain. This is done to assess any lasting damage to the brain tissue, and to implement treatments as needed.
Potential Long-Term Effects of TBI
Some common long-term side effects of brain injuries may include any of the following:
- Memory loss
- Mood swings
- Depression
- Aggression
- Irritability
- Changes in attention span
- Difficulty concentrating
- Changes in cognitive function
- Problems speaking
- Diffculty understanding language
- Sensory problems
- Issues with balance and coordination
Increasing Severity of Long-Term Effects Over Time
It’s important to note that the above effects of a brain injury can get worse with age. Over time, the real impact of a brain injury can show. If you do not notice the problems getting worse yourself, a loved one, a colleague, or your doctor may identify serious changes in overall wellness.
Second Impact Syndrome
Making matters worse, there’s the issue of second impact syndrome to consider. In essence, once you suffer from one concussion or brain injury, there is a higher risk of suffering from subsequent and more serious brain injuries.
Second impact syndrome is a major component of chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), a progressive degenerative brain disorder that is common among athletes and combat veterans. Multiple brain injuries result in the permanent death of brain cells. Some studies suggest that up to 30 percent of people who have suffered multiple brain injuries develop CTE.
Dealing with the Lifelong Impact
The lifelong impact of a brain injury or multiple brain injuries can be difficult. Medical monitoring and treatment can help mitigate the damage. The same is true of a career change, which helps prevent the potential for additional head trauma. Psychological counseling and a strong support network are also crucial for living with the lasting effects of head trauma.
Holding Negligent Parties Accountable
If another person or party caused your brain injury, it’s important that they be held legally accountable. Our personal injury lawyers will help seek damages for the hardships you’ve endured, and help you seek compensation from the negligent party to cover medial expenses, lost wages, and emotional pain and suffering. Punitive damages may also be sought if the incident that result in brain damage is especially egregious.
Learn More About Your Legal Rights
For more information about your legal rights following a TBI or severe head trauma, we encourage you to contact the personal injury attorneys of Quick Law Group, PLLC. We are here to offer expert legal counsel and guidance.