When to Seek Medical Attention – Head & Brain Injuries
by BV on 27/07/09 at 2:50 pm
A traumatic brain injury (TBI) is an acquired condition, occurring when an external force causes trauma to the brain. No two TBI’s are exactly alike, in that the variation of force, damage, and trauma may produce a varying degree of symptoms. Symptoms are generally associated with the extent of damage one has endured. For example, a person who is suffering a mild TBI is more likely to suffer milder symptoms (i.e., mild headache) when compared to an individual who has sustained severe brain damage (i.e., coma). This is not a bright line rule, however, and anyone who has experienced ANY symptoms following a jolt or shock to the head should see a doctor. Additional symptoms associated with a mild TBI include impaired memory, behavioral changes, mental or physical fatigue, blurred vision, and dizziness.
A person experiencing symptoms of a mild TBI may be reluctant to visit a doctor, however, the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke offers the following advice:
“Anyone with signs of moderate or severe TBI should receive medical attention as soon as possible. Because little can be done to reverse the initial brain damage caused by trauma, medical personnel try to stabilize an individual with TBI and focus on preventing further injury.”
The Institute points out that about half of all “severely” head-injured patients will need surgery, thus reinforcing the urgency to seek medical attention after head trauma. Depending upon the severity of the injury, patients will often need ongoing medical treatment that potentially will not be covered by health insurance. After an accident, the most important thing is to seek immediate medical treatment if you believe yourself or a loved one has been injured. The second step is to speak with an attorney if you believe the negligence of another has placed you or a loved one in the situation you are in. If that is the case, it is imperative to work with experienced attorneys.
