What are the Long Term Effects of TBI?
The long term effects of a traumatic brain injury range from devastating to subtle. Paralysis is an example of the former, but the latter may involve the loss of fine motor skills. This makes performing routine tasks, like buttoning shirts or tying shoes, difficult.
Appearances are often deceiving. Even people who look like they have made a substantial recovery from their head injury endure permanent symptoms. In addition, TBI victims are more prone to dementia and other neurodegenerative diseases as time passes. A TBI can significantly shorten the lifespan.
A TBI’s long term effects may prevent you from ever working or living independently again. You fear for the future as you deal with your limitations. Do not despair. Help is available. A Los Angeles traumatic brain injury lawyer at Ellis Injury Law will hold the entities responsible for the TBI liable so you may receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries.
Long term effects of TBI
While every TBI patient’s situation is unique, common long term effects of a moderate or severe TBI include:
- Issues with walking and talking
- Headaches
- Seizures
- Chronic pain
- Chronic fatigue
- Difficulty swallowing
- Vision problems
- Memory loss
- Sleep disorders
Some TBI victims lose the ability to control their bladder and bowels. The body finds it hard to regulate temperature. Hormonal changes may occur, leading to further physical and emotional troubles.
Sensory effects
A TBI affects all five senses. Vision problems are just one example. Many TBI victims find their hearing diminished or develop tinnitus, known as ringing in the ears. There is extreme sensitivity to light or noise.
They may lose their sense of smell and taste. A permanent bad taste in the mouth is a potential side effect.
Emotional effects
While physical and cognitive changes are the most obvious long term effects after a TBI, the emotional effects can prove nearly as damaging. Anxiety and depression are common, as are mood swings and irritability. The dependence on caregivers puts strains on family relationships. Some patients are in denial about their condition, unable to recognize how profoundly their lives have changed.
TBI challenges
Even if someone with a TBI is capable of working, it is unlikely they can return to their former job. Their skills are not what they were prior to the injury. Cognitive issues impair the decision-making process.
A traumatic brain injury attorney knows their client will need ongoing treatment and care. The long-term needs of a TBI victim can require staggering sums. If the insurance company will not agree to a suitable settlement, we will take the matter to court.
Contact a Los Angeles traumatic brain injury lawyer
While those suffering a severe TBI will almost always experience long term effects, the same may hold true for those with moderate and even minor head injuries. If you or a loved one are dealing with a TBI caused by another party’s negligence or recklessness, contact the Los Angeles accident lawyers at Ellis Injury Law. Arrange a free, confidential consultation by calling or texting 24/7 or completing our online form.
Because we work on a contingency basis, there is no fee unless you receive compensation.