A traumatic brain injury (TBI) can result from a blow or jolt to the head. Ranging from “mild” to severe, a TBI can affect how the brain functions in different ways. Below is a breakdown of the types of traumatic brain injury and what to do if someone else caused your injury.
Two Types of Traumatic Brain Injury: Closed and Open
A TBI results from either a closed or open head injury. A closed head injury occurs when the blow or jolt to the head does not penetrate the skull. In contrast, an open head injury refers to an outside force coming in contact with the brain. Both injuries can endanger a person’s health, well-being and life, depending on their severity.
Mild TBI: Nothing “Mild” About It
Contrary to its name, a mild traumatic brain injury is not necessarily mild in symptoms. Rather, it simply differentiates the injury from more severe cases. Sufferers can still experience debilitating symptoms.
Concussion
A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury. This term is frequently noted in contact sports such as boxing and football, particularly following the advent of the NFL concussion litigation. A person with a concussion may or may not lose consciousness. Concussion symptoms, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, include (but are not limited to):
- Problems thinking, concentrating, and remembering
- Physical issues such as headache, vision changes, nausea, dizziness, and weakness
- Emotional changes like irritability, sadness, depression and anxiety
- Changes in sleep habits and insomnia
Concussion symptoms may go away in a few days, or they may last longer. It’s important to contact a health care professional right away if you think you’ve suffered a concussion. Even if the single injury seems mild, symptoms may manifest later. Repeated head injuries can be life threatening.
Moderate to Severe TBI
If it isn’t fatal, a moderate or severe concussion may result in a long period of unconsciousness and/or memory loss, the CDC notes. A TBI of this magnitude can cause lasting problems involving a person’s cognitive function, motor skills, sensation and emotion. Of those hospitalized after suffering a TBI, almost half still have a TBI-related disability one year after the injury.
Getting Legal Assistance After a TBI Caused by Negligence
Some people sustain a TBI as a result of someone else’s careless act. Whether it’s a slip and fall injury, a car crash, a sports injury or another incident, the victim may be able to seek compensation for related medical bills, lost wages, and more.
However, a brain injury lawsuit requires the knowledge of a skilled attorney. CaseyGerry has decades of experience representing people suffering from a TBI. Their role in representing injured players in the NFL concussion injury litigation and the family of San Diego football legend Junior Seau has led the legal team at CaseyGerry to know the most cutting-edge brain injury research. Our San Diego brain injury attorneys have the experience, resources and compassion to help TBI sufferers move forward. Further, people with a TBI might have no visible signs that accompany the brain injury. In reality, that person may be suffering from debilitating physical, emotional and cognitive effects. Protecting their rights means truly showing the severity and extent of the injury.
If you’ve sustained a TBI as a result of someone else’s negligent act, we can help. Call (619) 238-1811 or fill out our online form to speak with someone right away.
If you or a family member is dealing with the effects of a TBI, we urge you to see the medical and emotional care you need. Taking on the injury alone can be unbearable.
