Dealing with a Traumatic Brain Injury After a Car Accident

What is a TBI?

TBI or Traumatic Brain Injury is the damage of the brain tissue due to a blast to the head. The blow can be as a result of a car crash, a fall, a hit or the like. There are different types of injuries that can occur during an automobile accident. Though in such cases brain injuries are one area that raises a lot of concern. There are quite a number of brain injuries which do not manifest after the accident.

What Happens Immediately After TBI?

Two reactions are seen immediately after TBI. First, the reaction is seen on an individual’s functioning. Those who suffered severe injuries encounter loss of consciousness immediately after the trauma. The trauma lasts for a few minutes to hours, weeks and even months. If the injury is serious, after the first few days of trauma may produce negative changes in motor functioning and breathing.

Second, the brain tissue retaliates to trauma and to tissue damage with a procession of biochemical and physiological reaction. Substances that were held within the cells are now everywhere within the brain.

When one starts to regain conscience, some neurological symptoms are evident like aggression, irritability among others. When an injured person regains consciousness, Post-traumatic amnesia (PTA) is also experienced.

Types of Brain Injuries Caused by Car Accident

There are a few traumatic brain injuries (TBI) caused by an auto accident.

Concussion

This is a well-known type of brain injury which is mostly associated with automotive accidents. A concussion occurs when the brain receives trauma from impact or abrupt momentum.

Most of the concussions do not require major medical treatment or surgery. If the concussion is causing headache, the doctor is likely to recommend pain relievers. You will also be asked to get plenty of rest.

Diffuse Axonal

It occurs as a result of a strong rotation of the head. The rotation tears the structure of the brain.

In the event DAI, the immediate action needed is to reduce the swelling inside the brain. In some cases, steroids are given to reduce the swelling. But there is no surgery to those who have sustained DAI injuries. If the injury is severe, it can result in death. However, if the injury is moderate, rehabilitation is perhaps the best option.

During rehabilitation, a recovery program may include

• Physical therapy
• Speech therapy
• Occupational therapy
• Recreational therapy
• Counseling
• Adaptive equipment training

Contusion

Contusion or bruise is another TBI caused by a car accident. It’s tricky than a normal bruise when it involves the brain. For this reason, when it occurs it might require surgical removal.

In most cases, contusion begins to heal after a few days. Your doctor is likely to prescribe anti-inflammatory medication to ease the inflammation and reduce swelling. The RICE method is also recommended in treating treat bruises.

What to Do After Your Injury

There are some things you can do after your injury to safeguard yourself and your interest.

• Stop and never drive away from the scene
• Protect the scene to avoid more accidents
• Inform the authority/call the police
• If you happen to have a camera, take pictures
• Seek medical attention

How to Help Yourself

Rest

Avoid unnecessary physical activity to protect your injury from further damage.

Ice

Wrap the ice in a damp cloth or towel then apply to the skin. This will help reduce pain, bleeding, and swelling. Do not apply ice directly to the skin. Apply the ice for about 20 minutes after every two hours for a few days.

Compress

Wrap the bruise with a bandage for additional support. It also helps reduce swelling and bleeding.

Elevate

When resting, elevate your injury above the heart level to increase circulation. It will also reduce swelling.

TBI Signs and Symptoms to Look For

• Clear fluid oozing from ears or nose.
• Nausea and vomiting
• Low level of consciousness
• Dilated or uneven pupils
• Seizures or convulsions
• Difficulty in thinking
• Confusion
• Slow thinking and response times
• Mood changes or swings
• Fatigue or drowsiness

Have You Been Involved in a Car Accident?

An accident is inevitable as they say but there is nothing terrifying like being involved in a car accident. And the worst part, if you are injured in that very accident. An automobile injury can cause havoc to your health, drain your earnings and leave you in debts due to unsettled bills. Even though no one wishes to be involved in such a scenario, if it happens, it’s worth to have a lawyer on your side.

If you have been involved in a car accident, it is essential you find the right doctor. Injured Call Today is a free agency that will help you book an appointment with a top physician. These doctors are specialized in all kinds of injuries sustained as a result of an automobile accident. Book an appoint today and find the top doctor near you.

Have You Suffered a Traumatic Brain Injury?

Traumatic Brain injuries vary from case to case. Some traumatic head injury long-term effects include mood swings and memory loss. TBI can be mild, moderate or severe depending on how much the damage is. Concussions are a mild form of TBI. The symptoms are temporary and fade away after a few days/weeks. Severe damages can cause permanent brain damage, coma or death.

Find the Right Doctor Today

A health professional will help you understand if the injury is severe and require medical attention. Our search tool will help you to find the right physician for your injuries. We list the top physicians in New York that will provide you with adequate medical care.

If your injury is from a slip and fall, an auto accident or work-related, contact us now for the best treatment.