- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), which can include mild concussions or life-threatening conditions, can occur. TBIs are most often caused by direct trauma to the brain. If the normal functioning of the brain is disrupted by a blow, jolt or sudden impact, it can have devastating consequences.
- Although most TBIs are short-term, mild-to-moderate TBIs can cause long-term problems that may last for years.
Common Symptoms of Traumatic Brain Injuries
According to the Centers for Disease Control, there was an estimated 223,135 TBI hospitalizations in 2020 and 64,362 TBI-related death. TBIs are more common in adults aged 75 and over, accounting for one-third of all deaths and hospitalizations due to brain injuries.
TBI symptoms can vary depending on how severe the injury is, what type of accident it was, and what pre-existing conditions. Many people who have suffered a TBI may feel confused or dazed. Some symptoms may not become apparent immediately in others. Some concussion patients may not feel symptoms until several days after the accident.
These are some of the most obvious signs of a TBI:
- It is difficult to speak
- Memory problems
- Nausea and vomiting
- Persistent headaches
- Fatigue and dizziness
- Convulsions and seizures
- Sleep patterns are changing
- Confusion and disorientation
- Mood and behavior changes
- Sensitivity towards bright lights or smells
TBIs are very different and medical professionals have created a severity scale for them. Doctors will assess symptoms and run tests to determine the severity of TBI after most accidents.
The Glasgow Coma Scale, which has the following range, is the industry standard.
- Mild
- Moderate
- Severe
- Vegetative state
Even mild brain injuries may require medical attention in order to receive treatment and avoid any complications from a TBI. Sometimes, brain imaging may be required to detect bleeding such as a hemorrhage.
Long-Term Disabilities Associated with a Traumatic Brain Injury
Although most people can recover from mild TBIs, others can cause permanent disabilities or worsening of health conditions that can last for many years.
Some TBI factors that can cause long-term cognitive impairment are:
- Contusions
- Shearing axen
- Multiple concussions
- Coup-contrecoup injuries
- Hemorrhages, hematomas
- Injuries due to brain penetration
- Second Impact Syndrome (SID).
Research shows that patients with severe or moderate TBI are more likely to develop the following conditions:
Post-Traumatic Epilepsy, Seizures
About 25% of patients suffering from severe TBIs are at risk of developing seizures in their lifetime.
Severe brain injury can cause cellular damage and alter cognitive processes. Seizures can occur when the brain is severely damaged.
While epilepsy can be inherited, it can also develop after an accident or injury.
Neurodegenerative Disease
Recent research suggests that TBIs may increase your risk of developing degenerative conditions like Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE).
Multiple TBIs can cause brain damage, whether the victim is older or younger. Multiple minor concussions may cause brain dysfunction later in life.
Mood Disorders and Mental Illness Associated With Brain Injuries
Some TBI patients may experience psychological problems that can worsen or develop.
These conditions may include:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Bipolar disorder
- Personality disorder
Studies show that patients who have never had a psychological condition are four-times more likely to develop mood disorders after a severe to moderate TBI.
Complex neural pathways are required for emotional processing and mood regulation. When the brain’s ability to communicate with itself is disrupted, mood can become unstable and worsen over time. This can lead to ongoing mental illness.
Summarized from an article by M&Y Personal Injury Lawyers
