What’s the Difference Between a Traumatic Brain Injury and a Concussion?

What Are the Symptoms of a Traumatic Brain Injury?

While some of the symptoms of a traumatic brain injury and concussion are remarkably similar, there are distinct differences between the two. It often requires a series of medical tests to determine which type of injury occurred. If you believe you have a traumatic brain injury, seek medical attention immediately.

Symptoms of a TBI include:

• Headache
• Confusion
• Ringing in the ears
• Behavioral or mood changes
• Blurred vision
• Changes in sleep patterns
• Problems with memory, attention, ability to focus or think

The symptoms of a traumatic brain injury can take days, weeks, or months to manifest fully. These long-term symptoms could impact victims for the rest of their lives. If you have been in an accident that resulted in a traumatic brain injury or concussion, you deserve compensation. Call our firm today at 206-900-9900 for more information.

What Are the Symptoms of a Concussion?

Although concussion symptoms may mimic those of a TBI, there are some pronounced differences. Some of the most common symptoms that accompany a concussion include:

• Headache
• Neck pain
• Feeling dazed or not yourself
• Slurred speech
• Nausea
• Confusion
• Ringing in the ears

You must seek medical attention immediately if you experience any of these symptoms after suffering a significant head injury. Similar to a TBI, the symptoms of a concussion can take days or weeks to present fully. A medical professional will evaluate your symptoms and advise you on how to heal quickly while staying safe.

What Are the Main Differences Between a Traumatic Brain Injury and a Concussion?

It may seem as though there is no difference between the terms “traumatic brain injury” and “concussion.” These two terms are often used synonymously, yet they are quite different in their nature and overall severity.

A traumatic brain injury (TBI) typically occurs due to extreme physical trauma, such as when the head violently hits an object or an object pierces the skull and brain tissue. A traumatic brain injury victim also typically loses consciousness and may experience long-term symptoms. A concussion is also a brain injury, but one that is less severe. Symptoms of a concussion may last for weeks or months but can typically resolve fully.

If you have experienced a significant head injury as a result of an accident due to another person’s negligence, you may be entitled to file a lawsuit to recover financial compensation for your injuries. Contact our law offices and ask to schedule a free no-obligation consultation to discuss your case.

What Are the Most Common Causes of Traumatic Brain Injuries and Concussions?

Both traumatic brain injuries and concussions are typically suffered due to a sudden or violent impact on the head in which the brain shifts from side to side inside the skull.

Some of these injuries range from minor to severe, but must all be taken seriously to prevent future related health problems and permanent brain damage.

Common causes of TBIs and concussions include:

• Car accidents
• Whiplash
• A blow to the head
• Slip and fall accidents
• Sporting accidents
• Violence

The impact of the brain hitting the skull can cause brain bleeds or bruises. These injuries can happen in one part of the brain, or they can happen in multiple areas. Additional injuries, like skull fractures, can exacerbate the symptoms of a concussion or traumatic brain injury, leading to longer healing times.

Injuries caused by an accident due to someone else’s negligence may be eligible for a personal injury lawsuit. If you have suffered a concussion or traumatic brain injury because of someone else’s reckless actions, you deserve compensation for your medical expenses, pain and suffering, and property damage. A personal injury lawyer will examine your case and determine how to get you the compensation you deserve.

How is a Traumatic Brain Injury Treated?

Traumatic brain injuries range in severity, so treatment options can vary. Surgery may be necessary if the individual has ruptured blood vessels or bruised brain tissue. For mild or moderate traumatic brain injuries, medical professionals may do X-rays or a CT scan to check for spine injuries or bone fractures.

Once the severity of the injury is diagnosed, victims can begin physical therapy or rehabilitation to treat symptoms and heal their injuries. Occupational therapy, speech therapy, and social support may be needed depending on a person’s symptoms. Recovery could take months or even years for moderate to severe brain injuries.

How is a Concussion Treated?

Before treating a concussion, medical professionals will typically do a neurological exam to test vision, balance, reflexes, and coordination. Depending on the severity of the injury, they may also evaluate the victim’s memory and thinking. If the injuries are severe, a CT scan or MRI can show signs of bleeding, fractures, or inflammation in the skull.

Most people make a full recovery from a concussion. Medical professionals often recommend resting and limiting physical activity to avoid exacerbating any symptoms. Limiting activities that require concentration may also be recommended since they can trigger headaches and confusion.

Can Your Law Firm Help Me File a Claim if I Have Suffered a Brain Injury?

If you have suffered a TBI or a concussion due to another person’s negligence, you may be entitled to file a claim to recover compensation for your injuries. A TBI or a concussion can lead to you being unable to work which can quickly create financial hardship for you and your family.

Our law firm is dedicated to recovering maximum compensation for injury victims who have suffered a TBI or a concussion in an accident. Contact Khan Injury Law by calling 206-900-9900 and ask to schedule a free case review to learn of your legal options.