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Suffering injuries to your head can lead to a long recovery and life-changing effects. Depending on the severity of the injury, you could face high medical expenses for the rest of your life. As a result, it is important to understand the different types of traumatic brain injuries in Boca Raton accidents to ensure that you are getting the proper treatment and compensation.
After sustaining a traumatic brain injury, it can be difficult to manage your recovery in addition to dealing with insurance companies and the legal process. Experienced traumatic brain injury attorneys at Kogan & DiSalvo could help you work through your case so you can focus on getting healthy. Our office is full of compassionate lawyers who want to help you through this difficult time in your life.
Types of Head Trauma
There are many types of traumatic brain injuries, or TBIs, that a person in Boca Raton can suffer when they are injured in an accident.
Some of the types of TBIs include:
- Coup-Contrecoup Brain Injury
- Concussion
- Diffuse Axonal Injury
- Second Impact Syndrome
- Shaken Baby Syndrome
- Penetrating Injury
Primary and Secondary Traumatic Brain Injuries
Traumatic brain injuries are categorized into two major groups: primary TBIs and secondary TBIs. Primary TBIs occur up to an hour after the incident occurs. These primary head injuries include contusions, vessel damage, axonal shearing, blood-brain-barrier damage, and damages to the meninges. Secondary traumatic brain injuries become apparent hours, days, or sometimes months later. Common secondary TBIs include ischemia, hypoxia, hypotension, edema, increased intracranial pressure due to inflammation, hypercapnia, acidosis, excitotoxicity, and further breakdown of the blood-brain-barrier.
Although not technically considered a TBI, traumatic conditions are often a result of suffering a traumatic head injury. Traumatic conditions are commonly reported as feelings of psychiatric morbidity, and studies have linked major depression and anxiety disorders to people who have suffered a TBI.
Distinguishing Between Types of Severe Head Injuries
One of the main ways that a doctor may differentiate between the types of traumatic brain injuries is by utilizing the Glasgow Coma Scale. This measurement tool is a 15-point test that helps emergency medical personnel assess the initial severity of a brain injury by checking the patient’s ability to follow directions and move their eyes and limbs. The higher the score, the less severe the injuries.
Doctors also utilize CT scans or MRI’s to make further a further diagnosis. A CT scan is usually the first test performed in the emergency room for a suspected TBI. Healthcare professionals may order an MRI after the patient’s condition stabilizes or if the symptoms do not improve soon after the injury.
The Importance of Understanding the Different Types of Head Trauma
It is crucial for a patient to understand their injury to be prepared for their course of treatment. This knowledge also allows a victim to be in a position to discuss their treatment options with their doctors and attorneys.
Experienced attorneys should understand the types of head trauma to make sure the injured victim is seeking proper medical treatment. Being knowledgeable about the different types of traumatic brain injuries in Boca Raton also enables attorneys to fight for the proper compensation based on the diagnosis of the injured person.
How Does Treatment Differ Between Types of TBIs in Boca Raton?
Treatment of a TBI varies depending on the severity of the injury. A mild traumatic brain injury may not require specific treatment other than rest. However, it is critical to follow a healthcare provider’s instruction for complete rest and a gradual return to normal activities after a mild TBI. If a person resumes normal activities and experiences TBI symptoms, the healing and recovery process may take longer than if they followed their doctor’s instructions initially.
Certain activities, such as working on a computer and concentrating hard, can tire the brain even though these actions are not physically demanding. A person with a concussion might need to reduce these kinds of activities or might need to rest between periods of such activities to let the brain rest. Alcohol and other drugs can also slow recovery and increase the chances of re-injury.
Most people with a moderate to severe brain injury will need some rehabilitation therapy to address physical, emotional, and cognitive issues. Types of rehabilitation can include physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, psychological counseling, vocational counseling, and cognitive therapy.
Contact a Boca Raton Attorney to Understand the Types of TBIs
Whether it is a mild concussion or severe brain bleed, you have a right to obtain compensation from the at-fault party. The type of traumatic brain injury in a Boca Raton accident can result in many costs and damages. Knowledgeable attorneys at Kogan & DiSalvo are here to fight for you. Contact our office today for a free consultation.
