In case you or somebody else have suffered from severe head trauma, it is important to know the signs of trauma and how to react. It is also important to know what can be done about this problem legally in Florida.
Signs of Trauma
These are different for everyone but some common signs include confusion, difficulty with speech or understanding others, headache, nausea, and vomiting, ringing in ears (tinnitus), blurred vision or double vision (diplopia), memory loss (amnesia), seizures. If someone has these symptoms they should go see a doctor as soon as possible because if left untreated for too long it could cause permanent damage.
It is also important to think, as early as possible, about the reasons for the head trauma. What was the cause of the accident? Was it an assault or something else? You are for sure going to need the help of a legal professional in case you do not have good health insurance, or you know the injury was caused by someone else’s negligence. Make sure to take pictures of your injury as soon as possible and keep any evidence related to the accident, such as clothing, broken items, etc.
If you have been unlucky enough to suffer from a TBI, it is important to realize that not all symptoms show up immediately. Memory loss and the more subtle changes in behavior can start days or weeks after the initial trauma. Other more serious symptoms do not show up for months.
After a Head Trauma
Some basic things need to be done right after head trauma to ensure the best possible outcome.
- Stay calm and avoid any type of movement or travel if you suspect a head injury
- If there is someone around, call 911 and ask for an ambulance, and make sure to describe your condition (severe headache, confusion, etc.) and the accident that may have caused the trauma
- During the ride to the hospital, try to relax as much as possible since it can help with circulation
- If possible, keep still because any type of movement will cause pain in your neck. Try not to close your eyes either since this can intensify nausea and vomiting
- Do not eat or drink anything until you’ve been seen by a doctor
- If you are feeling sick, try to keep track of how often and how much you’re vomiting. This will help the doctor treat you better
- Answer all the questions the doctors ask truthfully and completely since it is important to know about your medical history and any previous head traumas
- It might be a good idea to have a family member or friend with you during the hospital visit, especially if you’re feeling overwhelmed or confused.
Legal Considerations After
Although most head injuries are physical injuries resulting from negligence, some others might be seen as medical malpractice cases. If a doctor or nurse failed to diagnose a TBI and as a result, the person suffered further damage, this would be medical malpractice. If you are considering legal action because of a TBI, it is best to get legal counsel for brain injury from a lawyer. They will be able to assess your case and let you know what kind of damages you might be able to recover.
Most people who suffer from TBIs require some form of long-term care which can be very expensive. Some of the damages that can be recovered in a lawsuit include money for past and future medical expenses, money for pain and suffering, and lost wages if the person can no longer work because of their injury.
The Outcome
The long-term effects of a traumatic brain injury depend on a lot of factors such as age, general health, and severity of the injury. Some people make a full recovery while others experience some level of disability for the rest of their lives. There is no one answer to this question, as every case is unique.
However, there are a few things that can be done to improve the outcome.
- Get regular therapy and rehabilitation
- Take your medication as prescribed by your doctor
- Stay positive and patient
- Join a support group or talk to other people who have gone through a traumatic brain injury
Head injuries can be frightening and life-changing. If you or someone you know has suffered from head trauma, it is important to seek medical attention right away. Some things need to be done for the best possible outcome. Keep in mind that not all symptoms show up immediately and some might take weeks or even months to manifest.
If you have questions about what to do after a head injury, please consult with an experienced brain injury lawyer. They will be able to answer any of your questions and help you file a lawsuit if necessary.