When people are involved in catastrophic car accidents, slip and fall accident or even minor fender benders, they are at risk of receiving traumatic brain damage. Any type of sudden impact to the head may cause the inner brain tissue to smack against the hard interior of the skull. This jolt can lead to severe brain tissue damage, and bleeding, bruising and inflammation can occur. The symptoms of brain damage may be immediate in some cases. In other instances, however, the victim may not know that they have a brain injury for several days or weeks after the accident occurred.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that at least 138 people die from injuries involving traumatic brain damage every day in the United States. Nearly 2.5 million emergency room visits, deaths or hospitalizations are associated with brain damage. People should be able to identify the symptoms of TBI so that they may seek immediate medical attention if they suspect they should have it. Mild, moderate and severe cases of traumatic brain damage can have long-lasting effects on a person’s life.
The type of disability a person experiences as a result of TBI depends on the area of the brain that was injured, as well as how severe the injury is. People can develop epileptic disorders, sensory deficits, chronic pain and cognitive disabilities as a result of the damage. Victims may have trouble concentrating, remembering events, problem-solving and planning. These problems can make it difficult for people to return to work, or even accomplish daily activities needed to take care of themselves.
