What Treatments Are Available For a Traumatic Brain Injury?

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI’s) can have a significant impact on your ability to work, your earning potential, your relationships, and your lifestyle. Prompt and proper treatment can help limit the impact on your life. Treatment depends on the severity of the injury and the following are some of the things you should know as you start the recovery process.

Mild concussions are a common brain injury following an automobile or slip and fall accident. These typically require minimal treatment that can include bed rest, over-the-counter pain medication, and proper hydration. Most patients fully recover in the first three months post-injury, but symptoms can persist for up to six months.

Cerebral contusions are more serious and require more complex treatment. These bruises on the brain can cause swelling and bleeding within the cranium. With minor contusions, patients can expect to spend at least a week under hospital care and observation. During this time, the patient may be subjected to multiple CT or MRI scans to determine the true extent of the injury. When the injury is more severe, such as with a coup-contrecoup that affects both sides of the brain, a craniotomy or craniectomy may be performed to reduce swelling and remove fluid from around the brain.

Penetrating brain injuries are the most severe and have the highest mortality rates. When the individual survives the initial injury, they often require multiple surgeries and extensive long-term care. Unfortunately, the areas of the brain that are damaged during the injury are permanently lost. This means that individuals can lose motor function, memory, speech, and other abilities.

Every brain injury is different and a brain injury law firm can help you secure a thorough diagnosis of your injuries. This makes it possible to identify the proper treatment for recovery. This may include physical therapy, speech therapy, surgery, etc. It is crucial not to delay treatment as most patients experience the most significant progress during the first few months post-injury. During this window period, the body’s immune system is actively working to repair the damage and it’s essential to make the most of this time.

Sloat, Nicholson and Hoover, P.C. is a brain injury law firm that can help you recover compensation following a traumatic brain injury. Whether caused by a slip and fall or a motor vehicle accident in Colorado, our attorneys invite you to contact our firm at (303) 447-1144 to discuss your legal options.