Understanding Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): Symptoms and Long-Term Effects

A serious accident or unexpected blow to the head can have consequences that ripple through every aspect of your life. A traumatic brain injury (TBI) can change your life in an instant. Understanding TBIs – their symptoms, effects, and what to do if your loved one is injured – is important to work through any challenges they present.

What is a traumatic brain injury?

The Cleveland Clinic reports that TBIs affect thousands of Americans every year. They note, “In 2020, more than 214,000 people needed in-patient care for a TBI. More than 69,000 people died from issues involving traumatic brain injury.”

A traumatic brain injury happens when an external force, like a blow or jolt to the head, disrupts the brain’s normal functions. You can suffer a TBI in a variety of ways, including car accidents, falls, sports injuries, or violent incidents. TBIs can range from mild, like a concussion, to severe, where the damage can be life-altering or even fatal.

What are the symptoms of a traumatic brain injury?

It’s important to be able to recognize the symptoms of a TBI. While some might appear immediately, other symptoms may take hours or even days to surface. Symptoms will depend on the severity of your injury, but we can group them into physical, cognitive, and emotional categories.

Physical symptoms

These can include headaches, nausea or vomiting, dizziness or balance issues, sensitivity to light and sound, and fatigue.

Cognitive symptoms

Cognitive symptoms of a TBI can include confusion, memory problems, difficulty concentrating, and slowed thinking.

Emotional symptoms

You might suffer from emotional symptoms like mood swings, anxiety or depression, and irritability.

Symptoms, however, can vary greatly between individuals. If you believe that you or someone you love has suffered a traumatic brain injury, seek medical attention immediately. Getting a prompt diagnosis and proper treatment can make a big difference in your recovery.

What are the long-term effects of TBIs?

The long-term effects of a TBI are different for everyone. Some people fully recover in a matter of weeks or months. However, others may experience long-lasting or permanent effects. These long-term symptoms can affect everything from your physical health to your cognitive abilities, emotions, and relationships.

Physical effects

Many TBI survivors experience chronic headaches and migraines, which can interfere with daily life. Also known as post-traumatic epilepsy, seizures can also develop months or years after the injury. Patients may also struggle with coordination, balance, and fine motor skills. Insomnia or excessive sleepiness may persist long after the injury occurs.

Cognitive effects

You may have trouble remembering events, names, or tasks. Planning, decision-making, and problem-solving may also be impaired. You may have difficulty communicating – having trouble finding the right words or following conversations.

Emotional and behavioral effects

TBI patients may also suffer from depression and anxiety and exhibit shifts in temperament or behaviors. Another behavioral effect is impulsivity, which is acting without thinking and can lead to risky or inappropriate behaviors.

Social and relationship effects

Changes in mood or behaviors can make it harder to connect with family and friends. At work, you may have trouble concentrating or completing tasks, which could affect your employment status. Finally, feeling misunderstood or unsupported can lead to social withdrawal and isolation.

How are TBIs diagnosed?

Typically, a combination of physical exams, imaging tests, and cognitive assessments go into diagnosing a TBI. Doctors may use tools like MRIs or CT scans to identify damage to the brain. Neurological tests can evaluate how well the brain is functioning, while cognitive assessments can measure memory, attention, and problem-solving skills.

If you’ve experienced a blow or jolt to the head, don’t hesitate to seek medical care. Early intervention can help prevent complications and provide a more clear picture of what’s happening.

What steps should I take after a TBI?

It can be overwhelming dealing with a traumatic brain injury, but there are steps you can take to protect both yourself and your legal rights.

First, get immediate medical attention. Even if your symptoms seem mild, you need a medical evaluation. Adhere to your doctor’s orders, including rest and therapy, to help your recovery. Don’t forget to document everything – keep records of your medical appointments, symptoms, and any related expenses.

If your injury was caused by someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation. Talk to the experienced TBI attorneys at Wagner Workers Compensation & Personal Injury Lawyers. We can help guide you through the legal process and advocate for your rights.

How can I support a loved one with a TBI?

It can be challenging to care for someone with a traumatic brain injury, but there are ways you can help:

• Learn about TBIs so you can better understand what your loved one is going through.
• Be patient. Recovery takes time, and progress might be slow.
• Assist with tasks like scheduling appointments or managing medications.
• Encourage therapy – physical, occupational, and psychological therapy all aid in recovery.
• Supporting someone else is hard work, so don’t forget to take care of yourself and your own well-being.

When should I contact a Chattanooga traumatic brain injury attorney?

If you or a loved one have suffered a TBI due to someone else’s negligence, you have legal options. Whether your injury resulted from a car accident, a fall, or some other incident, our skilled attorneys can help you seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If you need guidance, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to provide the support and advocacy you deserve for what you’re going through.

The dedicated Chattanooga TBI attorneys at Wagner Workers Compensation & Personal Injury Lawyers are here to help you understand your rights and fight for the compensation you’re owed for your injuries. Whether you need assistance covering medical expenses, lost wages, or other damages, we’re committed to providing you with personalized support every step of the way. Please call our office or use our contact form to schedule a free case evaluation in Chattanooga today. We also work with clients throughout Cleveland and North Georgia.