Not all brain injuries are the same. They can have different symptoms, causes and effects. When it comes to severe traumatic brain injuries, the more you know, the better prepared you will be to cope with the effects of the injury.
There are two primary causes of severe TBIs — penetrating and closed. A penetrating injury is one in which an object enters the skull. Examples of this type of injury include being shot or being impaled in the head by a sharp object. A closed injury is one that is caused by a hit to the head or the violent movement of the brain in the skull. Examples of a closed injury include shaken baby syndrome and motor vehicle accidents.
When a severe TBI isn’t fatal, there are four major effects that a person might experience. Changes in emotions, such as becoming depressed or aggressive, are one of these. Changes in motor function, such as becoming weak or losing balance, can occur. Changes in cognitive function, such as having trouble paying attention or remembering things, might occur. Changes in sensations, such as visual changes or impaired perception, are also possible.
A person with a severe TBI will need considerable therapy and medical care to help them cope with the injury. This often involves a team of professionals who work together to help the patient. Many people who have a severe TBI will be unable to work, but that doesn’t stop bills from coming in. Those patients might choose to seek accident compensation to help with medical expenses and other damages.
Source: United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, “Severe Traumatic Brain Injury,” accessed Feb. 05, 2016
