Austin Brain Injury Attorneys

Types of Brain Injuries

An “acquired brain injury” refers to any injury to the brain that is not present from birth, caused by birth trauma, or the result of degenerative or hereditary factors. Acquired brain injuries are divided into two major categories: traumatic brain injuries (TBI) and non-traumatic brain injuries. 

What Is a Traumatic Brain Injury?

A traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a medical condition that results from a sudden blow, jolt, or penetrating injury to the head, which disrupts normal brain function. TBIs can have a wide range of physical, cognitive, and emotional effects. 

Healthcare professionals commonly use three main severity classifications for TBIs:

Mild TBI (Concussion):

• A mild TBI, sometimes referred to as a concussion may cause confusion, headache, dizziness, temporary loss of consciousness (for a few seconds or minutes), and memory problems.
• Imaging studies like CT scans or MRIs typically show no visible structural damage to the brain.
• Recovery is generally expected with rest and symptom management, although some individuals may experience persistent symptoms, known as post-concussion syndrome

Moderate TBI:

• A moderate TBI can cause prolonged loss of consciousness (minutes to hours), more pronounced confusion, persistent headache, nausea, and memory deficits.
• Imaging studies may reveal abnormalities, such as contusions or bleeding within the brain.
• Recovery varies but often requires medical monitoring, rehabilitation, and therapy. Some individuals may experience lasting cognitive or emotional changes.

Severe TBI:

• Severe TBIs involve extensive damage to the brain and often result from a significant impact or penetrating injury.
• Symptoms may include prolonged unconsciousness (hours to days), profound confusion, severe headache, seizures, paralysis, and significant cognitive and behavioral deficits.
• Imaging studies typically reveal extensive structural damage to the brain.
• Recovery from a severe TBI can be challenging, and many individuals require intensive medical care, surgery, and long-term rehabilitation. Some may experience permanent disabilities and a reduced quality of life.

What About Non-Traumatic Brain Injuries?

Some of the most severe non-traumatic brain injuries are hypoxic-ischemic brain injuries. “Hypoxia” is a deprivation of adequate oxygen supply, while “ischemia” is a deprivation of blood flow. When a restriction of oxygen or blood flow prevents oxygen from reaching the brain, brain damage can result. This type of injury can impair a person’s memory and the ability to ambulate, speak, see, swallow, and carry out other basic bodily functions. 

Both traumatic and non-traumatic brain injuries, including hypoxic-ischemic brain injuries, can be a consequence of another party’s negligence, error, or wrongdoing. At National Trial Law, we are prepared to fight for you in and out of the courtroom when you have suffered any form of brain damage. If you are not sure whether you have a claim, our Austin brain injury attorneys can investigate your circumstances and walk you through your legal options. 

How Do Traumatic Brain Injuries Occur?

Traumatic brain injuries can result from a sudden, significant blow to the head, so it is possible to sustain one after an accident or because of a physical assault. Some of the leading causes of traumatic brain injuries are auto accidents, slips and falls, and sports-related incidents.

There are several ways someone might sustain a traumatic brain injury, including (but not limited to):

• Car accidents. Motor vehicle accidents are the cause of many serious head injuries. An occupant may suffer a brain injury when their skull hits the steering wheel, windshield, or any other object.
• Truck accidents. Just like a car accident, truck accident victims are at risk of head injury when the skull sustains a violent impact. The forces in a truck accident can be even greater than in a typical car accident because of the size and weight of large trucks. 
• Motorcycle accidents. These accidents often result in a loss of consciousness, head injury, and brain damage. The outcomes may be more severe when the motorcyclist’s head strikes the pavement or another object, especially if they are not wearing a helmet at the time of the collision.
• Sports-related accidents. Any sport involving speed, physical contact, and/or hard surfaces can lead to serious head injuries. Hockey, football, lacrosse, baseball, cycling, skateboarding, and soccer are all examples of sports where an athlete could suffer a dramatic blow to the head.
• Slip and fall accidents. Icy or slippery surfaces are responsible for many injuries, particularly when a victim’s head hits the hard floor or a sharp surface as or after they fall. 
• Construction accidents. Head injuries at construction sites are frequently caused by slick surfaces, falling debris, and unstable structures.
• Physical assault. If a victim of violence is shot, stabbed, or struck in the head, they may suffer a traumatic brain injury. If a victim is choked or aggressively shaken, they could lose consciousness and suffer hypoxic-ischemic brain injuries.

The Role of Rehabilitation in Brain Injury Recovery

Rehabilitation is a vital component of brain injury recovery, as it helps individuals regain lost skills and abilities and adapt to new ways of living. Depending on the severity of the injury, rehabilitation may include:

• Physical therapy to improve strength, mobility, and balance
• Occupational therapy to help individuals relearn daily activities and develop strategies for managing cognitive and physical challenges
• Speech and language therapy to address communication difficulties
• Neuropsychological therapy to address cognitive and emotional issues

Rehabilitation must begin as soon as possible after a brain injury to maximize recovery potential. According to the Brain Injury Association of America, early intervention can significantly improve outcomes and reduce the long-term effects of the injury.