Long term treatment may be needed following TBI
Recently there has been a lot in the news regarding brain injuries incurred while playing sports. Professional football and hockey players have even taken legal action against the leagues regarding the matter. The reality however is that people of all ages suffer these injuries all too often. In fact, the following three demographics are most apt to suffer a traumatic brain injury:
- Babies to age four
- Adolescents between the ages of 15 and 19.
- Adults over the age of 65.
These injuries, which might be the result of falls or motor vehicle accidents, can be serious and might even result in death. When the injured person survives, they may need years of rehabilitation for the symptoms that do not go away. In addition to physical symptoms such as headaches they may also face psychological impairments as well.
Someone who has suffered a TBI might deal with depression and anxiety. In addition, they may be irritable, feel despair and even contemplate suicide. Thought these symptoms are actually due to damage the brain has sustained, treatment is generally handled the same as for others experiencing depression without the brain injury and it is important that treatment continue to be sought.
Treatment for any injury can be expensive. Accordingly, when a TBI is the result of a negligent action of another party, it is possible that a personal injury lawsuit could be filed. If successful, any monetary compensation recovered could be used to help cover medical bills and other expenses related to treatment of the injury.
Source: Everyday Health, “Traumatic Brain Injury: Not Just a Problem for Athletes,” Mark Herceg, Ph.D, May 28, 2014