The Importance of Pursuing Medical and Legal Action After Suffering a Head Injury

 Posted on December 00,0000 in Brain Injuries

Today most people think of the dangers of concussions and traumatic head injuries within the realm of professional sport. They would not be wrong for thinking that way, since over four thousand former NFL players filed a high-profile lawsuit against the NFL in 2011 based on the long-term life altering damage that accompanies traumatic head injury.

While contact sports such as American football and hockey put participants in much higher risk of suffering concussions, traumatic head injuries are not limited to the arena of competitive sports. Traumatic head injuries can occur in everyday life.

Everyone should be aware of the immediate and long-term health implications of head trauma. If you or a loved one suffered a traumatic head injury, contact a knowledgeable Lake County personal injury lawyer today.

What Causes Concussions?

According to the Mayo Clinic, a concussion is defined as a traumatic head injury that impacts the functionality of the brain. Concussions are predominantly caused by a blow to the head or upper body that results in internal shaking of the brain. As the brain shifts and hits the inner lining of the skull, problems such as bruising, swelling, nerve damage, and tearing of blood vessels can occur.

These types of blows to the head and upper body can occur in any number of ways while taking part in everyday activities. A rear-end collision on the commute to work could result in violent contact with the dashboard or steering wheel leading to a concussion. An industrial worker could suffer a traumatic head injury from falling debris at the workplace. A holiday shopper in downtown Chicago could slip on ice and fall outside an establishment suffering a concussion.

While most concussions are minor, left unattended the long-term damage to brain function can be incredibly problematic. It is important to contact a medical expert if concussion symptoms are present post-injury.

Short and Long-Term Health Implications of Head Trauma

Dealing with the aftermath of a traumatic brain injury can be aggravating, painful, and laborious. Short term symptoms in even the most minor of concussions can include headaches, memory loss, declining motor skills, and lack of concentration. In severe cases, short term symptoms can include vomiting, seizures, slurred speech, and prolonged disorientation. While the short term impacts of head trauma can be painful and difficult to deal with, the potential long-term health implications of a concussion can be truly life-altering.

According to studies conducted by the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS), severe head trauma can lead to abnormal brain activity and in some cases steady degradation of motor skills, even decades after the initial injury. One such study compared brain functionality in healthy athletes to athletes who had suffered concussions in previous decades. Though disturbing, the results proved helpful in recognizing the legitimate long-term health implications of concussions, as the previously concussed athletes suffered from memory loss, inability to focus, and other symptoms comparable to the early stages of Parkinson’s.

Contact an Attorney

The short term symptoms of a concussion can result in loss of work hours, expensive medical bills, and potential physical therapy sessions. The long term health implications of a severe concussion can be life-altering.

If you or a family member suffered a traumatic head injury it is important to contact an experienced Lake County personal injury lawyer as soon as possible. At Salvi and Maher, L.L.C., we have years of experience working with victims of head trauma. Contact us today at 847-662-3303 to set up a free consultation.

Sources:

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/concussion/symptoms-causes/syc-20355594

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/256518.php