New Mexico Traumatic Brain Injury Attorneys

Types of Traumatic Brain Injuries and Their Impacts

Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are clinically categorized into several types based on the severity of the injury and how the injury was sustained. The most commonly identified types are concussions, contusions, diffuse axonal injuries, and penetrating injuries.

Concussions are considered the mildest form of TBI and are often caused by a sudden impact or violent shaking of the head. They can lead to headaches, temporary loss of consciousness, confusion, and memory disturbances. Despite being labeled as mild, concussions can have cumulative effects if repeated over time, potentially resulting in chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), a condition prevalent among athletes in contact sports.

Contusions, or bruises on the brain, occur when a direct impact leads to bleeding on the brain. Symptoms may be similar to concussions but often more severe and long-lasting. A large contusion may require surgical intervention to alleviate pressure and prevent further damage.

Diffuse axonal injuries are characterized by widespread damage to the brain's white matter. They result from severe rotational forces that tear the nerve tissues in the brain. This type of TBI can disrupt normal brain function and result in a spectrum of disabilities, including severe motor impairment and comas.

Penetrating injuries happen when a foreign object, like a piece of shrapnel, enters the brain tissue. The impact causes not only damage along the entry path but can also send shock waves throughout the brain, compounding the injury's severity. Penetrating injuries are often life-threatening and require immediate surgical treatment to remove foreign objects and repair the damaged tissue.

The impact of these TBIs on an individual's life can vary significantly. Severe TBIs may result in profound physical impairments, requiring physical therapy to regain motor skills and to manage spasticity or paralysis. Cognitive effects can be just as debilitating, with victims experiencing difficulties in concentration, problem-solving, and memory. Emotional and behavioral changes can also be dramatic. Depending on the area of the brain affected, individuals might show increased irritability and aggression or suffer from mood disorders like depression and anxiety.

Put simply, many TBIs will permanently change how you live your life, and you deserve compensation to help cover those accommodations. Our New Mexico traumatic brain injury attorneys can walk you through your legal options for recovering compensation for your losses and any necessary shifts in lifestyle.