It is vital for a person’s health and well being that their brain operate optimally. Unfortunately, the human brain is susceptible to damage from trauma, illness and exposure to chemicals. If you or a family member has suffered a brain injury due to an accident or medical malpractice, an Ottawa-area brain injury lawyer can help ensure that you receive financial compensation for your damages.
Brain injuries are often caused by some kind of blow to the head, which may occur as the result of a car accident, a slip or trip and fall, a sports injury, a physical attack or an accident involving recreational vehicles such as boats or snowmobiles.
Other common causes of brain injury include a reaction to a drug, which may occur as the result of medical malpractice if the incorrect drug is given to a patient, a patient has an allergic reaction to a drug, or a patient is given an overdose of a drug. An accident that causes a temporary lack of oxygen to the brain, such as a near-drowning, may also cause damage to the brain.
The signs of a brain injury can vary depending on the area of the brain affected and the severity of the injury. If a family member may have suffered a head injury in an accident, it is important to watch them for signs of brain injury and take them to the hospital if any signs appear. Luckily, most victims of mild brain injury can make a full recovery. More severe brain injuries will often leave the victim with permanent impairment.
Signs and symptoms of brain injury fall into four categories.
- Cognitive signs include: Problems with memory or understanding, difficulty expressing thoughts, and a shortened attention span.
- Perceptual signs involve: changes to the five senses, including: blurry vision, changes to hearing, increased sensitivity to pain, spatial disorientation and balance problems, and changes to the senses of smell or taste.
- Physical signs include: headache, nausea, fatigue, seizures, paralysis and slurred speech.
- Behavioural signs include: irritation or aggressiveness, depression, and a reduced ability to handle stress.
By recognizing the signs of a potential brain injury, you can ensure that you or an affected family member receives immediate medical treatment. This can result in the best chance of making a full recovery. If you have suffered financial damages as a result of your brain injury, consult an experienced brain injury lawyer to preserve your legal rights.
