Somewhat ironically, you probably do not give your brain much thought. However, your entire world would change if something caused a traumatic brain injury (TBI).
Whether you sustain an injury through falling or as a result of a motor vehicle accident, sporting activity or act of violence, the effects can be catastrophic. Your symptoms could create a lifelong disability, as well as expense.
Potential long-term effects of a brain injury
Some head injuries are minor, requiring minimal medical attention and recovery time. However, a TBI can result in permanent cognitive damage and affect every aspect of your life. A significant jolt or blow to the head, such as what would happen in an accident with a commercial truck, could leave you unconscious or paralyzed. Even if your injuries are less severe, a brain injury could affect how you move, reason and perceive what is happening around you.
No matter your age, education or income bracket, a TBI may decrease your ability to:
- Monitor your inhibitions
- See clearly
- Control your bodily processes
- Focus on a task
- Regulate your body temperature
- Articulate your thoughts
Among other common symptoms, a critical decrease in your mental acuity could interfere with your interpersonal relationships, quality of life and ability to earn an income. Some medical treatments may help you regain at least some of your typical function. Though, the associated costs can be devastating.
Long-term expense of a TBI
In the United States, roughly one-third of all injury deaths stem from TBIs. Annually, TBIs relate to around 2.5 million visits to the emergency department and nearly 300,000 hospitalizations. And reports suggest that the combined direct and indirect lifetime costs of care for these patients exceed $76 billion.
Unfortunately, not all injuries are preventable, and another person’s negligence could override your safety efforts. If you receive a brain injury diagnosis, consider the potential summative damage of your injuries – you may find legal action imperative.