What Are the Different Types of Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)?

Any injury to the head should be taken seriously because of the possible long-term effects associated with damage to the brain. Often, early medical intervention is necessary to diagnose the type of traumatic brain injury (TBI) to develop a treatment plan.

If you or someone you love suffered a brain injury, seeking medical attention is the first thing you should do. If the accident was the result of someone else’s negligent or wrongful conduct, consider speaking with our brain injury lawyers in Toronto to fight for the compensation you need to get your life back on track.

Types of Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

Traumatic brain injuries can vary depending on the type and extent of damage to the brain. Some of the most common types of injuries that occur in a traumatic event include:

1. Concussion. Concussions are a common type of injury in motor vehicle accidents, slip and falls, and violent acts. A concussion is a mild form of TBI.
2. Contusion. A contusion, also known as a bruise to the brain, is associated with bleeding and swelling inside the brain. Brain contusions occur as a result of the impact of the inner surface of the skull with the brain.
3. Coup-contrecoup. This type of traumatic brain injury occurs both at the site of trauma and the opposite side of the skull.
4. Diffuse axonal injury. This TBI occurs when the brain rapidly shifts inside the skull, resulting in the shearing of the nerve fibers (axons).
5. Open head injury. This type of injury is commonly referred to as a penetrating wound. As its name implies, this TBI occurs when an object penetrates the skull and damages the brain. Open head injuries are considered the most serious of TBIs.

The Range of Severity in Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)

There are different levels of severity in traumatic brain injuries depending on the site and extent of the damage. Typically, the severity of TBIs ranges from mild and moderate to severe.

• Mild injury. Mild TBIs are commonly associated with a loss of consciousness for a short period of time. However, not all victims who suffer a mild TBI may lose consciousness. Many victims merely feel disoriented and confused after the traumatic event.
• Moderate injury. The loss of consciousness in victims diagnosed with a moderate traumatic brain injury can last for hours. They may also suffer from confusion for weeks after the traumatic event. Some complications arising from a moderate TBI may be permanent.
• Severe injury. In most cases, survivors who suffer a severe traumatic brain injury may not be able to return to their normal life and may suffer from permanent side effects and complications. Many severe TBIs occur as a result of an object penetrating the skulls and damaging the brain.

The Cost of Living with a Traumatic Brain Injury

The impacts of a traumatic brain injury can be immense. Possible complications associated with a TBI depend on the severity of the injury. Common side-effects of a traumatic brain injury that may last for weeks, months, years, or the rest of the survivor’s life include:

• Headaches
• Vision or hearing problems
• Memory loss
• Difficulty sleeping
• Dizziness
• Seizures
• Problems with coordination
• Mood swings
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Cognitive changes

During the survivor’s life, the cost of living with a traumatic brain injury can amount to hundreds of thousands or millions of dollars, depending on the type and severity of the TBI. In addition to burdensome medical expenses, the victim may suffer from various complications that may substantially impact many areas of their life, including the ability to work. That is why it is crucial to seek full compensation for long-term and short-term losses and expenses.

During the survivor’s life, the cost of living with a traumatic brain injury can amount to hundreds of thousands or millions of dollars, depending on the type and severity of the TBI. In addition to burdensome medical expenses, the victim may suffer from various complications that may substantially impact many areas of their life, including the ability to work. That is why it is crucial to seek full compensation for long-term and short-term losses and expenses.

Contact Brain Injury Lawyers in Toronto

If you or your loved one suffered a traumatic brain injury because of someone else’s negligent or wrongful conduct, our brain injury lawyers at Ristich Law are here to help. Our experienced brain injury lawyers in Toronto have handled numerous TBI cases and helped survivors and their families obtain the compensation to which they are entitled.