Is Traumatic Brain Injury Permanent?
A traumatic brain injury (TBI) can be permanent, although some types of TBIs do not cause permanent damage. For example, a concussion (which is medically classified as a mild TBI) does not always lead to permanent damage. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirms that most people recover after a concussion.
However, it depends on the severity of their injury, along with other factors such as how well a person cares for themselves and if they have suffered any concussions in the past. Even though concussions do not always result in permanent damage, they can cause you to experience symptoms that can last for days, weeks, or even months.
Types of Traumatic Brain Injuries that Can Lead to Permanent Damage
Unfortunately, in some cases, the damage caused by a traumatic brain injury is permanent. The American Association of Neurological Surgeons (AANS) defines TBI as a disruption in the normal function of the brain, often caused by a bump or blow to the head. When a person suffers a TBI, it can lead to any of the following conditions:
Hematoma
Hematomas are blood clots that form within the brain or on the brain’s surface. There are two types of hematomas that affect the brain:
- Epidural hematoma
- Subdural hematoma
With an epidural hematoma, blood collects between the dura mater (a thick membrane of connective tissue that surrounds the brain and spinal cord) and the inside of the skull.
A subdural hematoma occurs when blood collects between the dura mater and the arachnoid mater (another membrane that loosely covers the brain and spinal cord). A subdural hematoma can be very serious if left untreated or if the proper treatment is not rendered. According to the Cleveland Clinic, you could experience issues with breathing, paralysis, or even death without proper medical care.
Contusion
A contusion is when the brain becomes bruised. When a contusion occurs, the brain will bleed and swell. Unfortunately, brain contusions can cause permanent damage. In fact, hemorrhagic cerebral contusions are known for causing severe and often permanent damage.
Ischemia of the Brain
Ischemia of the brain occurs when there is an inadequate supply of blood flowing to the brain, leading to poor oxygen supply. Ischemia of the brain is a very serious condition that requires immediate attention and is likely to cause permanent damage.
Skull Fracture
When a person suffers a skull fracture, they may also suffer damage to their brain. This is especially true for fractures that occur at the base of the skull, which may cause injury to nerves or arteries that can have detrimental effects.
Living Life with a Traumatic Brain Injury
While TBI victims and their families always hope they will recover from their injury, nearly half of those who are hospitalized for a TBI experience long-term disabilities. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) currently recognizes TBI as a major cause of disability in the U.S.
Whether you suffered a mild or severe TBI, you may find that your life is impacted in a multitude of ways. With mild TBIs, you may struggle with carrying out your day-to-day tasks or returning to work. Severe TBIs can impact a person’s physical and cognitive abilities, sometimes leaving them incapable of walking, speaking, or being able to complete basic daily tasks.
In addition to the physical impairments that can result from a TBI, these injuries can lead to mental issues as well. When you realize that your life may never be the same or you may never be able to do things that brought you joy again, it can be hard to accept. Anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions are common.
In addition to the physical and emotional effects, you may also face significant ongoing costs for treatment.
Call an Attorney After a TBI Accident in New Hyde Park
If you or a loved one suffered a TBI in any type of accident in New Hyde Park, you may be entitled to compensation. TBIs can have a tremendous impact on a person’s life and livelihood. You should not have to suffer financially as well. Our team can help you seek the compensation you deserve after a TBI. Contact the Law Office of Cohen & Jaffe, LLP today at (866) 878-6774.
