The Potentially Serious Consequences of "Mild" Brain Injuries

June 22, 2011

When people hear the term "mild brain injury" they may assume that such an injury is not that serious. The basic misunderstanding stems from the fact that "mild" is used to indicate to neurosurgeons that the injury is not life-threatening and does not require emergent surgery. "Mild" does not intend to describe the seriousness of the consequences resulting from the injury. In fact, a mild traumatic brain injury can potentially cause serious and long-term damage to the functioning of an individual's brain.

What is a Mild Brain Injury?

A mild traumatic brain injury (MTBI) is an injury to the head caused by blunt trauma or acceleration or deceleration forces (i.e. whiplash). One or more of the following signs may accompany the injury:
- Confusion, disorientation, impaired consciousness
- Loss of memory (amnesia)
- Signs of neurological dysfunction (i.e. seizures, headache, dizziness)

These symptoms are a result of the trauma experienced by the brain. The brain is composed of fine nerve fibers and is surrounded by cerebral-spinal fluid enabling it to "float" under the hard skull. Therefore, when the head is struck or shaken that force is transferred to the brain causing potential damage. Motor vehicle accidents are a leading cause of traumatic brain injuries and the group most at risk is adolescents and young adults. Other causes of traumatic brain injury include sports, falls, physical assaults and injuries during birth.

How is an MTBI different than a concussion?

An MTBI is often referred to as a concussion. Within the category of concussion there are three different grades (1-3). In a Grade 1 or 2 concussion a person remains conscious and in a Grade 3 concussion the person loses consciousness.

The Brain Injury Association of America reports that approximately 75 percent of brain injuries are identified as MTBIs.

Diagnosis

These mild or non-catastrophic brain injuries may not be apparent on CT, MRI, or other standard brain imaging tests. There are abrasions to the brain and micro shearing of nerve tissue which may be present, but which are not detectable by conventional evaluations. Oftentimes those who suffer an MTBI will be referred to a neuropsychologist to determine whether there have been changes in brain functioning. Neuropsychologists will use a variety of tests to analyze the level of brain functioning and any areas of dysfunction. Examples of brain functions that may be tested include: attention, motor abilities, speech, sensory functioning, memory and emotions.

Consequences

It is important to understand that MTBIs can significantly impact a person's functioning. Although a person may "look fine" on the outside, the brain injury may cause changes in thinking and memory which impact daily life.
According to the Brain Injury Association of America there are several symptoms those suffering from a MTBI may experience.

Early Symptoms

- Headache
- Dizziness
- Nausea and vomiting
- Lack of awareness of surroundings

Later Symptoms

- Inability to concentrate
- Lightheadedness
- Continuous low grade headache
- Becoming fatigued easily
- Ringing in ears
- Vision difficulties
- Irritability
- Anxiety and depression

As can be seen from the lists above, the symptoms from MTBIs can range from physical, to cognitive, to psychological/behavioral. Each person's symptoms and recovery will differ. The variety of symptoms experienced by an individual who has suffered a MTBI often makes recovery challenging.

Recovery

Recovery from MTBIs can vary significantly between individuals. Your health care provider can provide guidance on therapy and timelines appropriate for your condition. Often recovery is uneven, with people experiencing "good days" and "bad days." It may be helpful for individuals to seek out support groups of others who can relate to what they are going through. The Brain Injury Association of Indiana (BIAI) can provide information about support groups that are available as well as other educational and advocacy resources.

Contact an Attorney

If you or a loved one has suffered a mild traumatic brain injury due to the negligent or careless actions of another, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. You may be able to recover damages to cover medical expenses, rehabilitation, lost wages and pain and suffering. An experienced Indiana traumatic brain injury lawyer can evaluate your case, provide information about available options, and advocate on your behalf.

Our law firm's philosophy is based on the belief that injury victims deserve respect and dignity as they encounter legal situations. Our responsibility is to fight on their behalf to ensure they are justly compensated. We provide the highest standard of representation to clients nationwide.

Provided by: Doehrman Chamberlain
www.tortslaw.com