Children often injure themselves from playing pretty hard, but luckily these injuries are usually minor. However, sometimes kids engage in an activity that results in a more serious injury, such as a traumatic brain injury (TBI). TBIs are often caused by things like sports injuries or car crashes and can result in very serious consequences. Here is what to know about TBIs in children.
Types of Traumatic Brain Injury
It’s first important to understand that there are three different types of TBI.
- Concussions
Concussions are a very common type of TBI. They occur when sudden movement causes the brain to hit the skull. While concussions can cause temporary cognitive impairment, most should be monitored and will subside after a period of time. Concussions become more serious when an individual experiences multiple ones.
- Contusions
Sometimes when someone experiences a sudden back and forth movement, often referred to as whiplash, the brain and the inside of the skull collide and cause bruising and swelling inside of the skull. This is known as a contusion.
- Fractures
When an individual experiences major impact to their head, their skull may actually fracture. A skull fracture is very serious in that it can impact both the structure and the function of one’s brain.
Symptoms of TBI
Children who suffer from a TBI generally experience three different types of symptoms: 1) cognitive; 2) emotional; and 3) behavioral.
Sometimes TBI can lead to cognitive impairment, such as memory loss, and difficulty following a conversation or making decisions. They may also suffer from sensory issues, including ringing in the ears and blurry vision.
When someone suffers from a TBI, their emotional response to things may even change. TBIs can lead to mental health issues such as anxiety and depression – even in children.
Finally, experiencing a TBI may even change the child’s behavior or personality. Their mood may be different, they may face difficulty sleeping, and they may seem more agitated about minor things.
Increased Age and Activities Increase Risk
As children grow into teenagers, their risk of suffering a TBI increases because their activity level also increases. Additionally, TBIs occur more during the spring and summer months when the weather is nicer and more children are active outdoors. Also, playing any kind of contact sport increases a child’s risk of suffering a TBI.
If your child is hit in the head or hits something with their head, it’s important to ensure that they are seen by a medical professional as soon as possible. Sometimes the symptoms associated with TBI can take days or weeks to develop before you even know something is wrong. A doctor can help to perform the necessary tests to make sure that your child is okay and receives the proper treatment.
The Attorneys at Ceja Law Firm Help Those in Houston Who Have Been Injured in an Accident
If you or your child has been injured in an accident due to the recklessness or negligence of another, it’s vital that you understand to what you are entitled under the law. With this information under your belt, you can make the important decisions regarding how you want to move forward. That’s why it’s in your best interest to consult with a knowledgeable and experienced Texas personal injury attorney.
At Ceja Law Firm PLLC, we understand the impact that an accident can have on many parts of your life and the importance of properly dealing with such negligence or recklessness. That’s why we will work to get you the compensation that you deserve. To learn more or to schedule a free consultation, contact us today!
