Traumatic brain injuries are one of the major causes of death and disability resulting from California car accidents. Ranging from mild to severe, TBIs occur when the head receives a severe blow or if a sharp object penetrates the skull and can cause short-term and long-term medical issues that can decrease the quality of life.
Statistics and effects of TBIs
Although 75% of brain injuries are mild, over 214,000 victims needed in-patient care for one in 2020, while 69,000 people died. Healthcare professionals classify TBIs into various categories, including mild, moderate or severe. Most mild TBIs are referred to as concussions. However, even victims of mild TBIs can often have difficulties working and accomplishing daily tasks. Healthcare professionals group together moderate and severe TBIs, as these usually produce long-term and, sometimes, permanent effects. Furthermore, TBIs are blunt or closed, where the brain bounces around inside the skull, or open when a sharp object penetrates the skull.
TBIs cause chemical changes in the brain, so those cells don’t function correctly. Concussion symptoms don’t always manifest immediately, but they can include:
• Confusion
• Short-term memory loss
• Grogginess
• Anxiety
• Nausea and vomiting
• Sensitivity to light
• Blurred vision
Moderate and severe TBIs result in a loss of consciousness, including coma. Other common symptoms involve balance issues, changes in sensory perception, depression, anger, aggressiveness, impulsiveness and difficulty managing behavior.
Getting help for TBIs
All TBIs need medical attention. The most severe ones usually develop as serious injuries caused by the negligence of others. The most severe injuries frequently require weeks in the hospital, followed by physical and occupational rehabilitation that can last months or years. In some cases, victims may be unable to work or only produce a part-time income, resulting in a lack of funds to pay medical bills and living expenses.
If you or a loved one have suffered a TBI, you should not underestimate its effects.. Compensation might be available through a lawsuit filed against the responsible party.
