Jersey Shore Personal Injury and Employment Specialists

Traumatic brain injuries can seriously impact a person’s life

On Behalf of | Apr 16, 2015 | Car Accidents |

Car accidents are a regular occurrence on New Jersey roads. Many of these collisions are minor and result only in a small amount of property damage. More serious accidents, however, can involve severe physical harm and fatalities. Some of the worst injuries that can arise out of a car crash are traumatic brain injuries.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website, TBIs can result when a person receives a blow to the head. The condition exists on a spectrum, ranging from mild to severe. A concussion, for example, is a commonly-known type of mild TBI. The CDC notes that traffic collisions are the third leading cause of traumatic brain injuries.

Severe TBI may manifest in a number of ways. The symptoms of this condition are often acute enough to seriously disrupt the victim’s life. According to the website of the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, these symptoms may include:

  • Headaches that become worse over time
  • Seizures
  • Problems with cognition
  • Difficulty speaking
  • Convulsions
  • Nausea

Unfortunately, current medical knowledge cannot reverse brain damage. The NIH notes that treatment efforts for TBI patients are primarily focused on preventing additional injuries and stabilization. These treatments may include surgeries, rehabilitation, occupational therapy, speech therapy and sessions with a psychologist.

Patients with TBI can suffer greatly. The CDC notes, however, that the impact of TBI does not stop there. The family and friends of these victims also endure a lot of emotional turmoil and stress. This is especially true when a patient’s care is primarily shouldered by relatives and friends.