Types of Traumatic Brain Injuries

Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) generally occur when brain tissue is damaged by external trauma. Though it is somewhat of an umbrella term, the signs/symptoms, prognosis, and treatment of particular injuries may vary greatly depending on their nature and severity.

Concussions
Although most concussions are considered “mild” TBIs, they can have devastating long-term consequences if not handled properly or allowed to heal fully. A concussion victim who returns to regular physical activity before making a full recovery is at serious risk of “second impact syndrome” (SIS), which could lead to rapid swelling in the brain and require emergency intervention.

Penetrating brain injuries (PBIs)
These occur when a foreign object pierces both the skull and the dura matter surrounding the brain. Common penetrations include high-velocity projectiles, such as bullets or shrapnel; low-velocity penetrations, such as from knives or sharp objects; and parts of a bone lodging into brain tissue as a result of a skull fracture.

While PBIs often result in death, those who survive these injuries may suffer decreases in abilities associated with the damaged area/s of their brains, though this is on a case-by-case basis. Some PBIs may also lead to additional complications, such as epilepsy, neurogenic pulmonary edema, or respiratory problems.

Cerebral contusions
This term refers to various types of bruises of brain tissue which occur in about 25% of all serious head injuries; they may occur on the same or opposite sides of the brain as the trauma and lead to headaches, nausea/vomiting, physical/sensory/cognitive difficulties, seizures, or loss of consciousness. Medical evaluation is absolutely necessary to control intracranial pressure and monitor the individual’s condition for any further complications.

Intracranial hemorrhages
This type of bleeding occurs when a blood vessel leaks or ruptures inside the skull following head trauma, which can cause dangerous pressure within the skull and cause damage to brain tissue; this differs from a “cerebral hemorrhage,” in which bleeding occurs inside the brain tissue itself. Immediate medical treatment is necessary to relieve pressure on the brain and prevent complications which may lead to stroke or other serious conditions.

If you or a loved one has suffered a traumatic brain injury in an accident, contact 844 See Mike, LLC for a free consultation. We are a Chicago-based injury law firm representing individuals (and their families) who have suffered an injury in an accident. We will handle your case quickly and advise you every step of the way, and we will not hesitate to go to trial for you. Lastly, 844 See Mike is not paid attorneys’ fees unless we win your case. Our no-fee promise is that simple. You have nothing to risk when you hire us – only the opportunity to seek justice.