Medical professionals admit that a traumatic brain injury (TBI) is one of the most difficult to diagnose. The signs and symptoms appear gradually and often are confused with other medical conditions. Many people are unaware they have a brain injury until it progressively gets worse.
Early diagnosis is imperative for two main reasons:
- The sooner TBI is diagnosed, the faster treatment begins. This can alleviate symptoms and in some cases prevent them from worsening.
- The insurance adjuster needs to know about all of the injuries associated with the accident while negotiating your settlement. Settling before you receive the diagnosis could mean you are forced to pay for someone else’s mistakes financially and physically.
Long-Term Effects of Brain Injuries in Virginia
The longer you wait, the more likely your symptoms will worsen. The impact brain injuries can have on your life is profound. In addition to the catastrophic injuries you suffered, you could have permanent cognitive damage.
There are two ways your cognitive health is at risk after a brain injury in Virginia:
- Direct effects. This includes memory loss, lack of coordination, confusion, disorientation, difficulty speaking coherently, or sensory problems.
- Increased risk of cognitive diseases. A severe brain injury can also increase the risk of Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.
With a fast diagnosis, you might be able to reduce the severity of these long-term effects with a consistent treatment plan to get your life back to normal.
How a Catastrophic Personal Injury Lawyer in Virginia Can Help
Brain injuries are not easy to diagnose. They are also expensive to treat. This is a bad combination that puts you at risk of paying for the damage that someone else caused.
Your personal injury lawyer in Virginia understands the risk you are up against. He will work to fight on your behalf to cover the cost of your brain injury. Your lawyer also knows that treatment for brain injuries is ongoing and sometimes lifelong. With his knowledge of your condition, your attorney will fight for you to receive the best possible treatment available.
If you know someone who might have a brain injury after a recent accident, we encourage you to forward this article along. Encourage your friend to seek guidance and to talk openly to his doctor so that he gets the help he needs after a severe brain injury harmed his quality of life.