Signs Your Concussion is Actually a Serious TBI
A traumatic brain injury (TBI) is classified as any injury to the head caused by trauma, including a violent blow, jolt, or penetrating injury. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that TBI is a major cause of death and disability, leading to around 64,000 fatalities and 223,000 hospitalizations every year. However, TBI can be anything from mild concussion to life-threatening damage to the brain. It can be difficult to assess the severity of the harm, which typically guides you in determining the level of medical care you need.
Because there is an extreme range when it comes to the medical consequences and long-term implications of TBI, get immediate medical attention after a head injury. Only a health care provider can tell you whether your concussion is something more serious and may require urgent treatment. Your next priority should be retaining an Alaska serious and catastrophic injuries lawyer for help with legal remedies. Meanwhile, here are a few signs to note about TBI.
Indications of Severe Head Injuries
TBI can be caused by any jolt to the head, but these injuries are quite common in motor vehicle crashes, slip and falls, and other preventable accidents. If you or a loved one was involved in such an incident, the CDC refers to a few danger signs to note in the aftermath:
- The victim lost consciousness or experienced memory loss;
- He or she is having convulsions, seizures, or extreme twitching;
- One pupil is larger than the other;
- The victim has a headache that worsens or will not subside;
- He or she will not wake up or shows signs of extreme drowsiness;
- The individual’s speech is slurred;
- Muscle movement is weak and there are problems with coordination;
- The victim is experiencing vomiting or nausea; and/or,
- He or she exhibits unusual behavior, angry outbursts, confusion, or restlessness.
For toddlers and infants who cannot express their pain, it is important for parents to recognize the signs of serious TBI. If your child will not stop crying, cannot be consoled, or refuses to nurse, seek immediate medical care.
Tips After a TBI Accident
Medical attention is critical after suffering a head injury in an accident, but your legal rights are also important. One essential task is gathering evidence, which will be helpful for supporting an insurance claim and in a lawsuit. Though you might be limited in your efforts depending on the severity of your TBI, if you can:
- Take pictures of the scene of the accident.
- Talk to witnesses who observed the incident.
- Make note of businesses in the vicinity that may have security cameras.
- Get a copy of an accident or police report, if any.
Contact an Anchorage Serious and Catastrophic Injuries Attorney
Of course, one of the most important tips after a TBI-causing accident is reaching out for legal help. You may be entitled to compensation, and our team at Power & Power Law can advise you on the process. Please call 907-222-9990 or go online today to set up a complimentary consultation at our offices in Anchorage, Alaska.