The only thing brain injuries have in common is that they are all unique. The specific area in the brain that becomes injured plays a major role in how it affects an individual injury victim. The severity of the injury and the promptness of the medical treatment will also have a major effect on their well-being and – if possible – recovery.
In other words, a traumatic brain injury (TBI) can change one person’s life in a completely different way than it would change someone else’s life. But you can look at overall trends to see the types of symptoms and mental changes people usually experience. Below are some of the more common issues that are reported.
Issues with memory
In many cases, a person who has suffered a serious TBI will not have any memory of the event at all. This could be true if they were involved in a semi-truck accident, for example, and suffered severe head trauma. But they could also face future challenges like an inability to make new memories.
Cognitive abilities
After some brain injuries, people see a decline in their cognitive abilities. Thinking and reasoning may become difficult. They could also have trouble paying attention or focusing. They may really have to concentrate in a way they never had to before, even on something they would’ve previously considered a simple task.
Emotional changes
Even when someone makes a physical and cognitive recovery, they could struggle with depression or anxiety. The nature of their injury can sometimes cause them to feel misunderstood or isolated. This can amplify their depression.
Physical disabilities
Of course, TBIs can also lead to serious physical issues. This reality is definitely unique to each case, but issues could involve motor skills, balance, the ability to make small adjustments and things of this nature. In some cases, these physical changes can be overcome through rehabilitation and learning. In other cases, brain injuries last forever and people are forced to adapt to them.
Injured parties may deserve compensation
Even when someone survives an accident, their life can change forever as a result of a traumatic brain injury. If they were injured due to another’s actions or inactions, they may be able to fund their ongoing medical care via personal injury damages. Seeking legal guidance is a good way to begin exploring one’s compensation-related options.