The brain is involved in so many aspects of daily life that any injury is disruptive. However, the severity of the disruption will depend on many facts, including which part of the brain is injured and the overall seriousness of the injury. Traumatic brain injuries are a common injury which send more than 200,000 people to the hospital each year. You might receive compensation for a traumatic brain injury.

With a mild brain injury, a person should make substantial recovery within 90 days or so. However, more severe TBIs can lead to concussion syndrome and lasting symptoms, such as those discussed below.

Memory Loss

Moderate and severe TBIs often cause memory problems, even long term. Many patients can’t remember appointments, meetings, and other short-term commitments. They forget where they put their keys or a piece of information they were immediately told. They also can’t force themselves to “remember to remember.”

Memory loss might improve somewhat with time, as the brain heals from the brain injury. But many patients will need to develop strategies for working around their memory loss. Certain memory devices—like having a smartphone app remind you of a meeting—can help people live independently despite their limitations.

Sleep Disturbances

Roughly 30-70% of those who suffer a TBI develop sleep disorders, such as:

• Fatigue
• Insomnia
• Narcolepsy
• Periodic limb movement disorder

Prescriptions can help with sleep, especially in the short term. But long-term changes to sleep patterns are difficult to counter. Further, changes to sleep can impact the ability to recover from the TBI, creating a vicious circle.

Balance and Coordination Problems

The brain is closely involved in helping people stand upright and move. A serious traumatic brain injury can lead to significant impairments, including a loss of balance or difficulty coordinating movements. Dizziness is another long-term symptom which impairs a person’s balance.

Speech Impairment

The left-hand side of the brain regulators speech, both talking and understanding language. Serious injury to this part of the brain can lead to long-term difficulties communicating with others. However, many TBI patients receive speech therapy and, with intense effort, make at least partial recovery.

Behavioral Changes

Behavioral changes are some of the hardest to deal with following a traumatic brain injury. Common changes include:

• Poor judgment
• Problems with impulse control
• Increased anger or frustration
• Repetitive behaviors
• Impaired social skills
• Changes in sexual behavior
• Development of depression, anxiety, or mood swings

Behavioral therapy, as well as prescription drugs, can help anyone suffering from a TBI. But the road to recovery is difficult and many families need help taking care of a loved one due to behavioral changes.

How a Lawyer Can Help You Following a Brain Injury

Traumatic brain injuries are an expensive injury to grapple with. Many accident victims struggle for years with large medical expenses while, at the same time, being unable to work. Fortunately, you could receive compensation for a traumatic brain injury if someone else’s negligence ended up hurting you. An experienced personal injury attorney can review the facts of your case to determine if you can bring a claim.