Whether caused by a car accident, slip and fall, or faulty premises, traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) can cause a wide range of effects. Some people eventually make a recovery from their injuries, while others must undergo extensive treatment and therapy to adapt to them.
In this case, the situation can be hard on the victim as well as their loved ones. That’s why you must understand the possible effects, which can help you navigate issues and possibly overcome limitations imposed by the TBI.
Trouble Regulating Mood and Emotions
TBI effects vary based on which area of the brain is damaged. Some people will experience problems controlling their moods, which can lead to angry or emotional outbursts. Emotional issues can also occur, such as the onset of anxiety and depression. These issues may require counseling for disorders related to mood and emotions. In serious cases, doctors may prescribe antidepressants or anti-anxiety medicine to manage emotional effects.
Problems with Cognition
Severe head injuries can affect multiple cognitive areas. A person’s ability to reason and solve problems can be diminished, or they may have problems communicating effectively. Concentration and memory can also be impacted by significant damage to the brain. Much like physical therapy builds strength in the body, other forms of therapy can build cognitive strength. For instance, cognitive therapy addresses deficiencies with problem solving, memory, and focus, while speech therapy can improve communication.
Decreased Motor Skills
Motor skills are movements that require involvement from numerous areas of the body, including the muscles, brain, and nervous system. Gross motor skills involve the muscle groups in the midsection, arms, and legs, while fine motor skills utilize the smaller muscle groups, such as the muscles needed to track movement with your eyes. When problems with motor skills arise, occupational therapy is usually recommended.
Issues with Behavior
It’s not uncommon for people with serious head injuries to experience behavioral effects. These changes can sometimes be quite startling, as a person may behave in a way vastly different from how they used to be. For example, a person may be prone to anger when they weren’t before, or they may be more impulsive. Much like emotional and mood issues, counseling is often helpful when a person has difficulty controlling their behavior after a head injury.
If you or a loved one experiences a TBI because of someone else’s negligent behavior, Hinkle Law Offices is here to lend our support. We’ve seen the effects a brain injury can have firsthand, so we know how important dependable legal representation is during the process. We’ll do our best to secure the compensation you need to cover medical expenses, which allows you to focus on your recovery.
Please call (505) TUF-HELP today to schedule a consultation with our injury attorneys. You can also contact us for more information on our legal services.