Understanding Traumatic Brain Injury

Injuries to the head can be devastating. A head or brain injury victim’s life can change dramatically, and his or her family members are often left overwhelmed by the amount and cost of care needed to assist their loved one. Years of physical therapy, loss of earnings and emotional trauma due to the injury can affect everyone involved and cause deep distress on many levels.

How do brain injuries occur?

Every year millions of people suffer traumatic brain injuries (TBI). There are two types of TBI —penetrating injuries and closed head injuries. TBI can result after a car wreck, a fall or any other serious accident involving impact to the head.  According to the Brain Injury Association of Florida, there are approximately 210,000 people living with a devastating injury in the state.

Athletes such as football players may also develop TBI, particularly from repeated trauma, such as concussions. Because they sustain so many collisions and tackles as their brains are still developing, high school football players are at risk of serious brain injury. In Florida, many high schools require athletes to take a test to provide physicians with a baseline so that cognitive impairment can be assessed after the season. In fact, the long term effects of constant head jolts and collisions have become a serious concern in many sports, such as soccer, lacrosse, competitive cheer and gymnastics.

TBI symptoms

Following a head injury, stay alert for the following symptoms that could indicate a more serious TBI:

• Blurry vision

• Loss of consciousness

• Light and sound sensitivity

• Loss of balance

• Nausea or vomiting

• Ringing in the ears

• Headache

• Memory problems

• Confusion

• Agitation

• Unusual behavior

• Sleeping more than usual

• Mood changes or swings

• Slurred speech

• Dilation of pupils

• Weakness

• Clear fluid draining from ears or nose

• Problems communicating

• Numbness in fingers or toes

• Inability to focus or pay attention

It is important to note that a TBI may not manifest symptoms until days or weeks after an impact or car accident. After any type of head or brain injury, seek immediate medical attention to determine the effects of the accident and to establish records in the event that you decide to file an injury lawsuit.

Legal options for recovery in Florida

If you have sustained a TBI or have a child who was injured while playing a sport, Gillette Law, P.A. can discuss your situation. By securing representation, you put yourself in the best position possible to recover rightful compensation for brain or head injuries.