Traumatic Brain Injuries In Los Angeles

According to the Brain Injury Association of America, a traumatic brain injury (TBI) is “an alteration in brain function, or other evidence of brain pathology, caused by an external force.”

TBIs vary in severity but are generally catastrophic and can cause a lifetime of debilitating symptoms and complications.  

Types of Traumatic Brain Injuries

There are two main types of TBIs:

• Open TBIs: Also known as a penetrating brain injury, an open TBI occurs when an object penetrates brain tissue. Examples include being shot or stabbed in the head, or an object such as a nail or screwdriver being forced through the skull. Not only does the injury itself cause damage, but it is common for external objects such as hair, skin, and bone to enter the brain.
• Closed TBIs: A closed TBI is also known as a non-penetrating injury. These types of TBIs are far more common than open TBIs. Examples include shaken baby syndrome, concussions, contusions, and hypoxic brain injuries. 

Causes of Traumatic Brain Injuries

Some of the more common causes of TBIs include:

• Pedestrian Accidents
• Bus Accidents
• Motorcycle Accidents
• Slip & Fall Accidents
• Car Accidents
• Truck Accidents
• Rideshare Accidents
• Bicycle Accidents

Symptoms of Traumatic Brain Injuries

According to the Mayo Clinic, TBIs cause a wide range of symptoms which generally fall into one of the following four categories:

Physical Symptoms

• Dizziness
• Vertigo
• Headaches
• Seizures
• Problems with speech
• Nausea
• Vomiting

Sensory Symptoms

• Changes in the ability to smell or taste
• Tinnitus
• Blurry vision

Cognitive, Mental or Behavioral Symptoms

• Confusion
• Slurred speech
• Sleeping too little or too much 
• Mood swings
• Confusion/Disorientation
• Loss of consciousness
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Combativeness or other unusual behavior

Symptoms in Children

• Drowsiness
• Loss of interest in playing with favorite toys
• Persistent crying
• Inconsolable
• Irritability
• Changes in nursing or eating habits
• Seizures
• Sad mood

Treatment of Traumatic Brain Injuries In Los Angeles

Treatment for a TBI will depend on the severity and type of injury the victim has suffered. Common treatments include:

• Medication to prevent and control the symptoms, as well as reduce brain pressure
• Surgery to remove any foreign objects if the injury was open or to relieve brain pressure
• Rehabilitation to relearn basic skills 
• Necessary therapies and counseling 

Consequences of Traumatic Brain Injuries

While modern medicine has made tremendous progress in treating TBIs, there is still a lot to learn about how the human brain operates. One aspect we are certain of is the sooner a person receives treatment for a TBI, the better the prognosis. Some of the possible consequences of TBIs include:

• Amnesia
• Loss of motor functions
• Migraines or recurrent headaches
• Respiratory problems
• Coma
• Death

Let a Los Angeles Traumatic Brain Injury Attorney at Culver Legal Help You

If you or a loved one has experienced a TBI, you need experienced representation. At Culver Legal, a Los Angeles traumatic brain injury attorney understands how TBIs can disrupt every aspect of your life and will keep you informed every step of the way as we aggressively seek the compensation you deserve. Contact us at 1-310-600-7881 or via our contact page.