Brain injuries are a significant public health concern with potentially long-lasting health consequences. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report that traumatic brain injury (TBI) accounted for approximately one million U.S. deaths in the last two decades.
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Brain injuries can lead to a range of short-term and long-term health issues. That’s why Deldar Legal represents people who suffer from these complications by working closely with doctors and medical experts to ensure your physical and financial quality of life is protected.
The Spectrum of Brain Injuries
Brain injuries can range from mild to severe, with the most common being concussions. However, even mild accidents can have lasting effects on an individual’s cognitive, emotional, and physical health. According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), the severity of symptoms and their duration can be influenced by factors such as the force of impact, the location of the injury, and the individual’s medical history.
Cognitive Impairments
Cognitive deficits are among the most well-documented long-term effects of brain injuries. Even mild TBIs can lead to memory problems, attention deficits, and executive dysfunction that persist for years after the injury. In more severe cases, it can cause significant cognitive decline, increasing the risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.
Mental Health Disorders
Brain injuries can also increase the risk of developing mental health disorders, such as depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Individuals who have experienced a TBI are more likely to develop psychiatric disorders than those without a history of brain injury. Additionally, the risk of suicide is also increased in individuals with a history of TBI.
Physical Health Problems
Physical health problems are another long-term consequence of brain injuries. Individuals who have suffered a TBI are at an increased risk of developing chronic pain, sleep disorders, and fatigue. Research has also shown that these type of injuries can lead to hormonal imbalances, causing problems with growth, metabolism, and sexual function.
Increased Risk of Future Trauma
Individuals who have experienced a brain injury are at a higher risk of sustaining another TBI. Athletes with a history of concussion are more likely to experience subsequent concussions. Repeated damage can result in a condition known as chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), a degenerative brain disease associated with memory loss, aggression, and suicidal behavior.
Prevention and Minimizing Long-term Health Risks
Given the potential long-term health consequences of brain injuries, it is crucial to take preventive measures to reduce the risk of TBI. Here are some prevention strategies:
- Wearing appropriate protective gear during sports and recreational activities.
- Using seat belts and car seats properly in motor vehicles.
- Installing window guards to prevent falls from windows, especially for young children.
- Using appropriate safety equipment in the workplace, such as hard hats.
- Ensuring that living environments for seniors are free from hazards that could cause falls.
In summary, understanding the potential long-term health effects of brain injuries is essential for both prevention and treatment. Patients suffering from severe cases may need to participate in an extensive brain injury rehab program.
Call Deldar Legal For A Free Case Evaluation
It’s important to protect your legal rights after any type of brain injury accident. The injuries sustained can cause permanent damage and impact your daily life. Call Deldar Legal at (844) 335-3271 or contact us online to schedule a free case evaluation. Our experienced brain injury lawyers are available to assist all Californians.
Tagged with: medical expenses, trauma prevention, traumatic brain injury
Posted in: Brain Injury