Contributing to a substantial number of deaths and permanent disability cases, traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a serious public health problem in the United States, according to the Brain Injury Association of Ohio (BIAO). In 2014, about 2.87 million TBI-related emergency department (ED) visits, hospitalizations, and deaths occurred in the United States, including over 837,000 of these health events among children.
“A big part of the rise of TBI diagnoses is the understanding that the great majority of TBIs cannot be 'seen' on MRI and CT scan, which was the prevailing view for a long time,” said Jeffrey M. Heller, an attorney at Nurenberg, Paris, Heller & McCarthy who focuses on representing TBI survivors. “The community in general is also becoming much more aware of the severity of non-contact brain injuries and is making sure to seek out medical attention when necessary.”
A TBI can be caused by a bump, blow, jolt, or severe injury to the head that disrupts the normal function of the brain. Not all blow or jolts to the head result in a TBI. The majority of TBIs that occur each year are concussions or other forms of mild TBI.
Common symptoms of a traumatic brain injury include:
- Poor memory and difficulty concentrating
- Strange sensations, including tastes and smells
- Difficulty speaking or understanding others
- Changes in behavior or personality
But of course, a detailed neurological examination, often with a CAT scan, MRI, SPECT, or PET scan, is necessary to diagnose TBI. If you experience any of these symptoms after an accident, contact a medical professional immediately.
Meet Our Personal Injury Attorney
Jeffrey M. Heller is a trial attorney with Nurenberg, Paris, Heller & McCarthy. During his career, he has tried more than 20 cases to a jury verdict and has obtained more than $3 million in jury verdicts in the past three years alone. Jeff focuses his law practice solely on personal injury and medical malpractice.
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If you or someone you know has suffered a brain injury, our Ohio personal injury attorneys may be able to help. We’ll investigate the cause of your accident and fight to get you maximum compensation. Call us today at (216) 230-6352 or complete a free initial consultation form online.