When doctors discover brain trauma, they initially diagnose the TBI as mild, moderate, or severe. These labels are used for diagnostic purposes only and do not necessarily reflect the serious nature of your injury or prognosis. Even initially mild TBIs, such as concussions, can have fatal complications and lasting effects. If you are diagnosed with any brain injury, from mild to severe, watch for long-term symptoms of: Post-concussion syndrome (persistent post-concussive symptoms) - Most mild concussions resolve within a few weeks or months. However, claimants experiencing these persistent symptoms might have developed this frustrating condition:
Light and noise sensitivity
Irritability and anxiety
Difficulty concentrating
Memory loss
Headaches and migraines
Dizziness
Insomnia and fatigue
Sensory changes (blurry vision, ringing in the ears, and taste/smell deficits)
Claimants often return to work in the week following mild concussions but find that these symptoms begin interfering with their career and home life. Always monitor for signs of this secondary syndrome and seek continued treatment. An attorney may help you recover needed compensation for cognitive and occupational therapy. Brain bleeding and swelling (hypoxic and anoxic brain injuries) - In the days and hours following even mild TBIs, brain bleeding may result in sudden swelling. This swelling compresses the brain within the skull, cutting off its oxygen supply. Brain cells begin dying after only 4 minutes without sufficient oxygen and may cause irreparable brain damage. Brain injuries present at birth often resulted from oxygen loss and associated medical malpractice. Second impact syndrome - This fatal condition occurs when the injured claimant experiences another traumatic brain injury while recovering from the first. In the ten days following the initial concussion or head trauma, the brain releases specialized chemicals. Triggering another release during this vulnerable period often causes irreparable brain damage and immediate death. Athletes have the highest risk of developing second impact syndrome. Epilepsy (post-traumatic seizures) - TBI patients may experience mild seizures after the initial injury, and about 25 percent of these patients continue suffering from seizures in the months and years following their accidents. These epileptic seizures require continuous medication and medical treatment. Most epileptic patients cannot drive, operate heavy equipment, or engage in previously enjoyed activities. Many claimants can recover substantial compensation for the life-altering impact of concussions and other seemingly mild brain injuries. Connect with the experienced San Antonio brain injury lawyers at Wyatt Law Firm to discuss your condition.