A traumatic brain injury (TBI) is one of the most devastating injuries an individual can suffer. A brain injury can cause a variety of problems, ranging from paralysis to trouble performing even the simplest daily activities. A brain injury can often have a catastrophic effect on their victims and their family.
The term mild traumatic brain injury (MTBI) is often used interchangeably with the term concussion. An MTBI or concussion is defined as a complex pathophysiologic process affecting the brain, induced by traumatic biomechanical forces secondary to direct or indirect forces to the head. MTBI is usually (but not always) caused by a blow or jolt to the head that disrupts the function of the brain. This disturbance of brain function is typically associated with normal structural neuro-imaging findings (i.e., CT scan or MRI). MTBI results in a myriad of physical , cognitive, emotional and/or sleep related symptoms that may or may not involve a loss of consciousness (LOC). Duration of symptoms is highly variable and may last from several minutes to days, weeks, months or even longer in some cases.
The common theme among all diagnostic definitions is that in order to be diagnosed with a mild traumatic brain injury it is not necessary to strike your head nor suffer a loss of consciousness. In fact, mild traumatic brain injury may be sustained as a result of forces generated due to the rapid acceleration/deceleration of the brain. This often causes what is referred to as Diffuse Axonal Injury (DAI) and results in physical, cognitive and emotional symptoms commonly referred to as post-concussion syndrome.
Traumatic brain injury can have long lasting implications for the victim due to extensive medical bills and post treatment costs. Learn more about traumatic brain injury by contacting a New York brain injury lawyer at the Law Office of Stephen H. Frankel.
Traumatic brain injuries result in various physical, cognitive, emotional and sleep related symptoms that can alter and limit your ability in performing daily activities of living including employment and household related responsibilities. The symptoms can be immediate or take several days, weeks or even months and can result in permanent total or partial disability.
Symptoms include:
- Headache
- Nausea and vomiting
- Confusion
- Blurred or double vision
- Loss of balance
- Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
- Fatigue
- Sleep abnormalities
- Abrupt mood changes
- Behavioral changes
- Difficulty concentrating
- Attention deficits
- Loss of memory
- Cognitive impairment
- Sensory deprivation
- Language/speech impairment
- Loss of consciousness
- Seizures
- Loss of coordination/balance
If you or a loved one have experienced a traumatic brain injury please contact an experienced New York brain injury attorney at the Law Office of Stephen H. Frankel for a free no obligation consultation.