Whether you were involved in a slip-and-fall accident or had an object fall on your head while on-the-job, you may have received a traumatic brain injury. These injuries occur when a sudden jolt to the head causes the brain to bounce within the skull, hitting against the hard bone and causing inflammation, bruising and bleeding. If you suffer from a brain injury, you are not alone. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, TBIs are involved in 30 percent of all injury deaths in the United States, making it one of the most common causes of disability and death.
In some cases, traumatic brain injuries can lead to long-term damage and inhibit your ability to perform at your job or engage in daily activities. Depending on the area of the brain that was injured as well as the severity of the injury, you may experience any of the following symptoms:
- Severe headaches
- Nausea and vomiting
- Sensory disabilities
- Memory loss
- Trouble concentrating
- Difficulty sleeping or sleeping more often
You may suffer from a change in personality, trouble making plans, speaking, understanding language or organizing tasks. These symptoms can make it hard to return to work. You may have to change positions or quit your job entirely if your employer cannot make the appropriate accommodations. Physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, counseling and rehabilitation can help to treat brain injuries in certain situations. However, each case is unique, and progress depends on the person.
This information is intended to educate and should not be taken as legal advice.