Traumatic brain injury: There is more than one treatment option

| Feb 15, 2019 | Firm News |

Even though a traumatic brain injury (TBI)can impact your life in many ways, it’s important to understand that there are a variety of treatment strategies that have been proven effective to varying degrees.

The type of treatment prescribed after a brain injury depends largely on the type of injury, its severity and the injured person’s current health status.

Above all else, seeking immediate emergency care is a necessity. For example, if you or a loved one suffers a head injury in a motor vehicle accident, it’s imperative to call 911 to ensure that paramedics arrive quickly and begin to provide the appropriate treatment.

Once you’re examined by medical professionals in a hospital setting, they’ll quickly make a decision as to which type of treatment is best. Some of the options include:

• Medication: There is no medication that can cure brain injuries, but some can lessen the side effects. For example, anti-seizure drugs are often prescribed during the first few days after a brain injury.
• Surgery: There are times when surgery is necessary, e.g., when there is bleeding in the brain, a skull fracture or a build-up of too much pressure.
• Rehabilitation: Most people who suffer a traumatic brain injury require rehabilitation. During this time, you will relearn basic life skills that might include walking, talking or caring for your personal needs. There are a variety of therapists who assist with the rehabilitation process, including, but not limited to, physical, occupational and speech therapists, language pathologists and neuropsychologists.

There are times when only one of these treatment methods is necessary. There are also situations in which someone with a severe brain injury will require multiple surgeries and many years of rehabilitation.

If you have concerns about a brain injury, even one that may not initially appear to be serious, you shouldn’t hesitate to seek medical care. The sooner you receive a diagnosis, the sooner your medical team can implement a treatment strategy to help you avoid additional damage.

As time allows, revisit the accident that led to the traumatic brain injury. For example, if you were injured in a car accident, learn who caused it and how to seek compensation for your injuries and other damages. You might decide that seeking compensation for your losses and damages is the best way forward.