What is TBI?
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) happens when a sudden event damages the brain. This can involve the head violently hitting an object, or an object penetrating the skull and entering the brain.
The law firm of Carr & Carr has assisted many clients as they struggle to cope with the aftermath of TBI. Carr & Carr lawyers have served Oklahoma residents since 1973, and we have the experience to help you face the difficult life challenges associated with TBI.
How is TBI Diagnosed?
Diagnosing TBI involves observing symptoms in accident victims. TBI symptoms can range from mild to severe, depending on the degree the brain has been damaged. Mild TBI patients usually are conscious or may only lose consciousness for a few seconds. Other symptoms of mild TBI include: headache, dizziness, confusion, blurry vision or tired eyes, tinnitus, bad taste in the mouth, tiredness, altered sleep patterns, changes in mood or behavior and memory problems. Moderate to severe TBI patients may have all of these symptoms and also a headache that gets worse and will not go away, nausea or vomiting, seizures or convulsions, a deep sleep from which they cannot be awakened, a dilated pupil or pupils, trouble speaking, weak or numb extremities, and confusion and agitation.
Recovery for TBI Patients
Less than half of all victims of TBI need surgery to repair injured areas of the brain. Sometimes, blood collects between the skull and brain, forming an intracranial hematoma. This requires surgical drainage. Surgery can also be utilized to drain fluid that has accumulated in response to the actual trauma. While body tissue naturally swells when injured, swelling brings about additional brain damage by building up pressure on the skull. Medicines can also reduce this pressure.
Memories of key events may actually disappear following a brain injury. Additionally, brain injuries can make it harder for you to acquire new skills and knowledge. Some memory problems may decrease as time goes by while others may not.
Rehabilitation is generally essential for those people who have experienced significant brain injury. These patients might need to relearn fundamental skills, such as talking or walking. The primary goal is to help these individuals function as well as possible in the home and the community.
To assist with recovery, some brain-injured people carry cue cards that remind them of important coping skills, such as:
- Take it slowly.
- Stop and think it through.
- Break things down, step by step.
- Don’t be afraid to ask questions.
- Never assume anything.
- Pay attention to the details.
- If you get tired, give yourself a break.
- A problem can be solved in more than one way.
Calendars help many TBI patients plan and organize daily tasks. Calendars also store information that might otherwise be forgotten.
The lawyers at Carr & Carr Attorneys understand TBI and its consequences. Carr & Carr’s years of experience assisting TBI patients can help you as you assess your health status. To receive a complimentary consultation with a lawyer, contact Carr & Carr Attorneys or call 1-877-392-4878. We have offices located in Oklahoma City, Tulsa or Northwest Arkansas locations.
