March is National Brain Injury Awareness Month. The severity of brain injuries vary depending on the type of accident that caused it. Incidents can range from someone colliding with another athlete while playing sports to falling off a ladder at work and hitting their head to being involved in a car accident. Victims should seek immediate medical attention as the injury may require surgery, a lengthy hospital stay, and/or extensive therapy. In many cases, another party may have caused the injury, such as a drunk or distracted driver or negligent manufacturer. A personal injury attorney can assist those who are suffering and pursue compensation on their behalf to alleviate the expense associated with medical bills and lost wages.

Prompt Care and Rehabilitation Can Restore Brain Function

The treatment for brain injuries might be different depending on the type of damage to the brain. For example, the way a concussion is treated is different than a skull fracture. The first step in treating a brain injury involves imaging tests. A computerized tomography (CT) scan uses X-rays for a comprehensive view of the brain and is typically performed when a victim comes to the emergency room. A CT scan can reveal fractures as well as hemorrhages, hematomas, contusions, or swelling. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) uses magnets and radio waves for a detailed view of the brain. This test may be conducted once a patient’s condition stabilizes.

Generally, mild traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) require rest and over-the-counter pain medication to relieve symptoms such as a headache. However, even individuals with less serious brain injuries should be monitored closely for any worsening or new symptoms. Limiting physical or thinking (cognitive) activities is typically recommended by physicians.

Any type of accident, whether it involves a vehicle, sports, workplace equipment, etc. can cause serious personal injuries. Depending on the situation, victims may be able to recover within days or months after surgery or rehabilitation if a bone was broken, for instance. However, there are other kinds of injuries that are considered more severe. A catastrophic injury is legally defined as an injury with “direct and proximate consequences” that “permanently prevent an individual from performing any gainful work.”

This type of injury can have life-altering effects and in many cases causes the victim permanent damage. This can range from paralysis to brain damage to third-degree burns. Regardless of the specific injury, it alters the victim’s life in a way that usually requires compensation to cover medical costs or long-term care.

Examples of Catastrophic Injuries

Catastrophic injuries are unique, but they not only impact the survivor in a significant way, but typically his or her family, too. It may require a family member to quit his or her job or take a leave of absence to care for his or her injured loved one. This can be emotionally and financially draining, especially if the victim requires 24/7 assistance. Even if a family member does not stay home, the family will likely have to hire a caretaker, which is a huge expense. A catastrophic injury can result in a limited future for survivors and their families.

According to a study published in the journal Neurology, even relatively minor brain injuries carry an increased risk of developing Parkinson’s Disease, a neurodegenerative disorder.

The Study

Researchers studied 325,870 veterans whose health data was recorded from 2002 to 2014 to explore the correlations between traumatic brain injuries (TBI) and the development of Parkinson’s Disease. Of those who developed Parkinson’s Disease, 65% percent had previously had a TBI ranging from mild to severe in nature.

Head injuries are commonly sustained in accidents such as car crashes and slip and falls. This is because the brain is vulnerable and more susceptible to injury. Unfortunately, the head is also one of the most difficult body parts to treat because of its complexity and because so many bodily processes involve the brain. Treatment for brain injuries can be varied and long-term.

Often, the extent of a head injury, which includes traumatic brain injury (or TBI), is not known in the direct aftermath of an accident. Therefore it is critical that accident victims not take a quick settlement offer before the full nature of the injury is known and until they can meet with a lawyer.

Initial Treatment for Head Injuries

Traumatic brain injuries can arise in almost any accident, including car crashes and slip and falls. TBIs are caused by a sudden jolt or strike to the head. TBIs can also be caused by repetitive hits to the brain.

Brain injuries are serious, and accidents where a victim has sustained such an injury should be handled by an attorney to be sure that the claim’s recovery is maximized. Complications can range from being obvious (such as a coma) or more subtle and not immediately apparent to others (such as learning disabilities).

However, all complications stemming from a TBI are likely compensable under law and should be reported to get a full recovery.