Severe traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are catastrophic and can lead to both short-term and long-term effects. These effects can impact every area of a person’s life, including their physical, mental, cognitive and emotional states.
A severe TBI requires intensive and ongoing medical care. Other services, such as rehabilitation and therapy may also be necessary. Understanding some of the long-term effects this injury can inspire may be beneficial for those affected and their loved ones.
Physical challenges
Severe TBIs can lead to a wide range of long-term physical impairments. Physically, victims may experience chronic pain, paralysis, loss of coordination and other debilitating conditions that can severely limit their ability to perform everyday activities. The type of effects they have depends on the location and type of brain injury they’re dealing with.
Cognitive changes
Cognitively, TBIs can impair memory, concentration and executive functions, making it difficult for individuals to work, manage personal affairs and maintain social relationships. These cognitive impairments can be particularly challenging because they often affect the victim’s personality and behavior.
Emotional consequences
The emotional toll of a severe TBI can be just as debilitating as the physical injuries. Victims may suffer from depression, anxiety, mood swings and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). These can complicate the recovery process and impact their overall quality of life.
Financial burden
Severe TBIs often result in significant financial burdens due to medical expenses, rehabilitation costs and lost income. In some instances, home and vehicle modifications add a considerable amount to the costs associated with the catastrophic injury. This depends on the types of impairments caused by the severe TBI.
Victims of catastrophic TBIs caused by another’s actions or inactions may opt to pursue a compensation claim to help offset the financial burden of these incidents. This must be handled in civil court with the party whose negligence caused the injury named as the defendant. Texas law sets strict time limits for filing these cases, so it’s critical to work swiftly. Seeking personalized legal guidance right away can help to better ensure that victims’ rights are protected as they move forward.