Ohio Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) Lawyer

A TBI happens when an external force or object hits the head and hurts normal brain function. These injuries can range from mild to severe trauma that leads to a coma or even death.

What Causes a TBI?

TBIs typically come from falls, car accidents, assaults, or sports-related impacts that directly affect the head. The force of the impact can either cause the brain to collide with the inside of the skull (closed TBI) or penetrate the skull and enter the brain tissue (open TBI).

How Does a TBI Affect the Brain?

A TBI can disrupt normal brain function, leading to temporary or permanent problems with anything the brain controls. The severity of these symptoms depends on the injury; mild concussions cause short-term effects, and severe TBIs potentially cause long-term disabilities or even reduced life expectancy.

Recognize TBI Signs

A TBI can look different for every person. It depends on the injury type and how severe it is. Recognizing the symptoms (whether they appear immediately or develop over time) is important to get the best care. Watch for common symptoms like headaches, nausea and vomiting, dizziness and balance problems, confusion, seizures, numbness in the body, and double vision. Other symptoms might include: 

Cognitive:

• Trouble concentrating or remembering
• Attention and decision-making problems
• Mood or personality changes
• Slurred speech

Sensory:

• Ringing ears (tinnitus)
• Light or noise sensitivity
• Taste or smell loss

Other:

• Irritability or agitation
• Fatigue
• Sleep disturbances
• Temperature sensitivity
• Difficulty swallowing
• Coordination loss

Get immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following severe symptoms because they may indicate a serious TBI:

• Loss of consciousness for more than a few minutes
• Seizures
• Clear fluid from the nose or ears
• Vomiting
• A severe or worsening headache
• Numbness or weakness on one side of the body

Don’t wait; get medical help right away if you think you may have a traumatic brain injury. Fast treatment can make all the difference for your recovery.

Recovering from a TBI

TBI recovery is different for everyone. Some people make a full recovery while others experience lasting impairments. Inpatient rehabilitation services are often necessary to help patients regain cognitive, physical, and psychological abilities, though even with this support, the CDC reports that people who survive moderate to severe TBIs may have a life expectancy up to nine years shorter than the general population.