A vast array of issues can arise from a brain injury, which is why these types of injuries should always be treated seriously and examined by a medical professional. Even if you initially feel fine after sustaining a brain injury, always be sure to make health care an immediate priority to ensure that your condition does not unnecessarily worsen.
Below is a list of some of the health complications that commonly arise as a result of a brain injury:
- Fevers and infections: One of the most common complications associated with a brain injury is an infection, which is usually indicated by a fever. Infections related to brain injuries typically develop in the lungs and the bladder. To diagnose an infection, your physician will most likely order a urine test, culture, and an x-ray of your chest. Upon discovering the location of your infection, he or she will prescribe antibiotics to treat it. That said, a fever does not always necessarily mean a patient is suffering from an infection. A fever might also suggest a blood clot or a heterotopic bone. If the portion of the brain that controls body temperature is damaged, this could also result in a fever.
- Blood clots: A brain injury can also result in blood clots, or deep venous thrombosis, in the legs or arms. In fact, this occurs in about 40% of all patients with brain injuries. This is a serious health complication due to the fact that a clot can break off from the blood vessels of the leg and travel to the lungs, potentially resulting in death. For this reason, brain injury patients are closely monitored and might even be given blood-thinning medications to reduce the risk of this occurring. In cases where a patient is suspected to have a blood clot, a CT scan might be ordered and, if one is detected, a stronger blood thinner would be prescribed.
- Seizures: Depending on the type of brain injury sustained, a patient might be prone to seizures. For example, those who suffer a penetrating brain injury are at an immensely high risk for seizures. If a physician suspects that a patient is likely to suffer from seizures, he or she would likely prescribe anti-seizure medication for preventive purposes. An EEG test could help assist in making the decision to prescribe such medications.
- Hydrocephalus: This is a condition wherein fluid in the hollow spaces of the brain begin to build up, which can ultimately squeeze the brain and result in negative side effects. If a physician suspects that a patient is suffering from this condition, a CT scan would likely be ordered. For those who suffer from more severe brain injuries, this condition is more common.
- Fractures and nerve injuries: Given that brain injuries are generally caused by trauma, such as a motor vehicle accident, victims often have other injuries as well. About 30% of all those who sustain a brain injury also have fractures or nerve damage and, oftentimes, these injuries are not immediately discovered. This is due to the fact that fractures and nerve injuries are usually difficult to diagnose, especially if their primary injuries are causing more pain or making it difficult to move. Once the person becomes more alert, however, further testing can be ordered. This is why it is crucial never to discuss your injuries with an insurance adjuster so early on in the claims process.
PERSONAL INJURY ATTORNEY IN TULSA
If you sustained a brain injury in an accident that was the fault of another party, you have a right to pursue fair and just compensation for your injuries and pain and suffering. At Richardson Richardson Boudreaux, PLLC, our team of personal injury attorneys in Tulsa is committed to fighting on behalf of those who were wrongfully injured. You can trust our experienced team to provide the effective representation you need to hold the responsible party accountable for his or her actions.
Get started on your personal injury case today and reach out to our law firm at 918-492-7674 to request a free initial case evaluation with one of our knowledgeable attorneys.