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A traumatic brain injury (TBI) can profoundly alter a person’s life in moments. The impact of head trauma can severely compromise an individual’s ability to maintain employment, attend school, and engage in activities that once brought them joy. The consequences of such a severe injury can also strain relationships with family and friends, creating additional stress and hardships.

However, it is essential to note that with proper medical care, individuals who have experienced a TBI can make a meaningful recovery. This recovery process may involve a prolonged hospital stay, visits to the intensive care unit, and even surgical procedures. This can be a daunting experience for the injured person and their loved ones.

If you or someone you care for has suffered a head injury due to another’s negligence, you can pursue monetary compensation to cover your damages. Our team of experienced injury lawyers can provide a free case evaluation to help you explore your legal options. Please contact us at (530) 392-9400 to get started.

Some of the most frequently observed types of TBIs include:

• Concussion: This mild TBI usually occurs from a blow or jolt to the head. Symptoms may include a brief loss of consciousness, headache, dizziness, confusion, and memory loss.
• Contusion: This is a bruise on the brain that can result from a direct impact on the head. Depending on the severity of the contusion, symptoms may include loss of consciousness, seizures, weakness, and difficulty speaking.
• Penetrating injury: This type of TBI occurs when an object, such as a bullet or shrapnel, penetrates the skull and damages the brain tissue. Symptoms can vary depending on the location and severity of the injury.
• Diffuse axonal injury: This type of TBI is considered severe, and it occurs when the brain rapidly shifts back and forth within the skull, leading to extensive damage to the nerve fibers. Individuals who experience this type of TBI may display symptoms such as loss of consciousness, coma, and cognitive impairments.
• Coup-contrecoup injury: This type of TBI occurs when the brain is injured on both sides of the brain due to a blow or impact to the head. The injury occurs at the impact site and on the opposite side of the brain as it rebounds.

It’s essential to seek medical attention immediately if you suspect you or someone you know has sustained a TBI. Treatment and recovery options can vary depending on the type and severity of the injury.

Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) can occur due to various mechanisms, but some of the most common causes of a TBI include:

• Falls are the leading cause of TBIs, especially in young and older adults. Falls can occur from heights or on the same level resulting in various TBI types.
• Motor vehicle accidents: Car accidents, motorcycle accidents, and pedestrian accidents are all common causes of TBIs. The sudden impact of a collision can cause the brain to jolt or hit the skull.
• Violence: Assaults and physical altercations can lead to TBIs, mainly if the victim sustains a blow to the head. 
• Domestic violence, child abuse, and gunshot wounds are all examples of violent events that can cause a TBI.
• Sports injuries: TBIs are also common in sports, particularly in high-contact sports such as football, hockey, and boxing. Repeated concussions can have serious long-term consequences for athletes.
• Explosive blasts: Military personnel and civilians near explosive devices can sustain TBIs from the blast pressure and debris.
• Penetrating injuries: Objects such as bullets, knives, or sharp objects can penetrate the skull and damage the brain tissue, causing a TBI.

It’s essential to take precautions to prevent TBIs, such as wearing seat belts while driving, using helmets while participating in sports or riding bicycles, and taking measures to prevent falls, particularly in older adults.

Recognizing a neurological injury, such as a traumatic brain injury (TBI), can be challenging as the symptoms can vary depending on the severity and type of injury. However, here are some common signs to look out for:

• Loss of consciousness: This is a hallmark symptom of a TBI but is not always present. If someone loses consciousness after a fall, car accident, or other trauma, it is essential to seek medical attention immediately.
• Headache: Headaches are a common symptom of a TBI and can range from mild to severe. A headache that does not go away with over-the-counter pain medication may indicate a more severe injury.
• Confusion or disorientation: People with a TBI may feel confused or disoriented or have difficulty focusing or concentrating.
• Memory loss: People with a TBI may experience memory loss, such as forgetting the events leading up to the injury or difficulty remembering new information.
• Nausea or vomiting: Nausea and vomiting are common symptoms of a TBI, mainly if they occur shortly after the injury.
• Dizziness or loss of balance: People with a TBI may feel dizzy or unsteady on their feet, making it difficult to walk or stand.
• Changes in mood or behavior: People with a TBI may experience changes in mood or behavior, such as irritability, anxiety, depression, or mood swings.

If you or someone you know has experienced a blow or jolt to the head and is experiencing any of these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately. Prompt diagnosis and treatment can make a significant difference in the recovery process.

Treatment for a traumatic brain injury varies depending on the severity and type of injury. Here are some standard treatment options for TBIs:

• Medications: Medications can be prescribed to manage symptoms of a TBI, such as pain, headaches, seizures, or agitation.
• Surgery: Surgery may sometimes be required to address traumatic brain injuries. This may involve procedures to remove blood clots, repair fractures to the skull, or alleviate pressure on the brain.
• Rehabilitation therapy: Rehabilitation therapy, including physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy, can help people with TBIs regain function, strength, and independence.
• Assistive devices: Assistive devices, such as wheelchairs or walkers, can help people with severe TBIs maintain mobility and independence.
• Cognitive rehabilitation focuses on improving memory, attention, and problem-solving skills for people with TBIs.
• Counseling: Counseling or psychotherapy can help people with TBIs and their families cope with the emotional and psychological effects of the injury.
• Support groups: Support groups can provide social and emotional support to people with TBIs and their families.

Working with a medical team specializing in TBI care is essential to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for each individual. The recovery process for a TBI can be long and challenging, but with proper treatment and support, many people can regain function and improve their quality of life.

Treatment for a TBI usually depends on the type of injury. The following video discusses new technology and treatments.

Experiencing a brain injury can be an overwhelming and stressful experience for both the injured person and their loved ones. If you or someone you care about has sustained a traumatic brain injury from an accident, our team of Winters brain injury attorneys is here to help. We offer free and friendly advice to assist you in understanding your legal options and pursuing fair compensation. Please don’t hesitate to contact us at (530) 392-9400 or (800) 404-5400 for friendly, free advice.

Our injury lawyers have helped Winters and Northern California residents get maximum compensation for their personal injury and wrongful death cases since 1982.

See our past cases on our Verdicts and Settlements page.

^{Editor’s Note: updated [cha 6.15.23] Image: By “sbtlneet” via Pixabay [cs 1307]}