Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) can be terrifying, especially if you are experiencing side effects and complications. Unfortunately, even mild brain injuries can have long-lasting effects. If you suffer a subsequent brain injury, the risk of long-term complications increases. Possible TBI side effects include memory problems, behavioral changes, and physical complaints. Read on to learn more about the symptoms of a brain injury and potential side effects, including those that might appear years later.
If you suffered a traumatic brain injury caused by another party’s negligence in California, you might have the legal right to pursue compensation for your damages. We strongly encourage you to contact us today so you can speak with one of the California brain injury lawyers at GJEL Accident Attorneys.
Common Cognitive Issues with Traumatic Brain Injury Victims
A TBI can have a significant impact on your cognitive abilities, which can manifest in various ways. Below, we describe some of the most common ones.
Short-Term Memory Problems
Problems with short-term memory are common following a brain injury. You might have difficulty recalling recent events or conversations. Understandably, these gaps in your memory can be frustrating and impede your daily functioning. They may last a short time, or you could experience problems on a long-term basis.
Attention and Concentration Difficulties
A TBI can make it challenging to focus on tasks or maintain attention for extended periods. You might stare into space. You may also be unable to complete your typical work tasks or chores.
Executive Dysfunction
Organizing your thoughts, actions, and emotions might be difficult after a brain injury. The struggle with planning, organizing, and problem-solving is known as executive dysfunction and can develop after a brain injury.
Information Processing Deficits and Communication Issues
A traumatic brain injury can affect your ability to understand and express yourself, leading to communication challenges. Some people also need assistance processing information quickly because the brain injury impacts their ability to learn new things and make decisions.
Physical Issues Following a Brain Injury
TBI side effects also include physical symptoms. Some physical symptoms are temporary, while others might be long-lasting. Some of the most common physical side effects following a brain injury include:
- Headaches. Frequent headaches or migraines can develop following a TBI.
- Fatigue. You may experience increased fatigue or difficulty managing energy levels throughout the day.
- Sensitivity to light and sound. A TBI can heighten sensitivity to visual or auditory stimuli. This makes tolerating bright lights or loud noises difficult.
- Balance and coordination issues. You may experience dizziness or balance problems. Balance and coordination problems can make tasks requiring fine motor skills challenging.
- Sleep disturbances. A TBI can disrupt your sleep patterns. This can lead to insomnia, excessive daytime sleepiness, or sleep apnea.
Immediately see a doctor if you’re experiencing any of these symptoms following a head injury. Some of these symptoms can be linked to other serious conditions.
Emotional and Behavioral Effects
Many brain injury victims suffer lasting emotional and behavioral issues too. Some common emotional and behavioral issues include:
- Mood disorders. Individuals with a TBI are at an increased risk of developing mood disorders like depression and anxiety. Mood swings and irritability are also common.
- Impulsivity and poor judgment. You may struggle with impulse control and decision-making, leading to risky or inappropriate behaviors.
- Apathy and lack of motivation. A TBI may cause you to lose interest in activities you once enjoyed. You may also feel a general lack of motivation.
- Personality changes. Personality changes after a head injury aren’t uncommon. Sometimes these significant changes can be difficult for the victim and family members to handle.
You should immediately address any emotional or behavioral changes. Please don’t assume these symptoms are unrelated to your brain injury because you have no physical symptoms.
Long-Term and Late-Onset Effects
Some side effects of a TBI may not appear immediately but can emerge later in life. It is not uncommon to develop head injury side effects years later. Also, a subsequent head injury increases the risk of long-term problems.
Some late-onset TBI side effects include the following:
- Increased risk of developing neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia;
- Increased risk of developing epilepsy or experiencing seizures;
- Ongoing pain in the head, neck, or other body areas;
- Disruption of the endocrine system’s normal functioning, which leads to hormonal imbalances; and
- Development of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), characterized by anxiety, flashbacks, or emotional distress.
Don’t ignore these potential brain injury side effects simply because they appear years later. Seek medical attention if you experience any of these issues, and be sure to tell them that you had a brain injury in the past.
Making a Claim for Future Losses in a Brain Injury Claim
If you or a loved one suffered a traumatic brain injury in a personal injury incident, you might be eligible to claim compensation for future losses. This compensation may include the following:
- Medical expenses,
- Rehabilitation costs,
- Lost income,
- Diminished earning capacity,
- Future pain and suffering, and
- Emotional distress.
Don’t hesitate to contact an experienced California brain injury lawyer at GJEL to discuss your options for compensation following a brain injury. We understand what a terrifying time this is for you and your family. Let us help you understand your legal rights and your potential compensation.
Contact GJEL Accident Attorneys for a Brain Injury Claim
A traumatic brain injury can leave you terrified and worried about your potential future care needs. These complications and long-term issues also impact your loved ones and your job. If you or someone you love is experiencing TBI side effects from an injury sustained in an accident, the skilled legal team at GJEL Accident Attorneys can assist you.
When you hire GJEL, we will help you navigate the claims process, gather evidence, and advocate for you. Our attorneys have decades of experience assisting brain injury victims in getting the compensation they deserve. We know what it takes to build a solid case for damages, including future losses. Brain injury cases involve complex legal issues. Please don’t attempt to negotiate a settlement alone. Let the skilled negotiators at GJEL do it for you. Please contact our office to schedule an initial consultation today.
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