Concussions and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are both types of head injuries, but they differ in their severity and potential long-term effects. A concussion is a mild form of TBI caused by a blow or sudden movement that temporarily disrupts normal brain function.
However, a TBI is a more serious injury that occurs when the brain is severely jolted or penetrated, causing bruising, bleeding, or other physical damage. TBIs can result in lasting cognitive, physical, and emotional impairments and even coma or death in extreme cases.
While concussions shouldn’t be taken lightly, TBIs generally require intensive medical treatment and carry a higher risk of permanent disabilities. Contact a Long Island brain injury lawyer with our firm to learn about your legal options if you experience the impacts of a brain injury.
Identifying a Concussion
After a bump, blow, or jolt to the head, you may have sustained a concussion if you experience any of the following symptoms:
- Headache
- Temporary loss of consciousness
- Confusion or feeling “foggy”
- Dizziness or loss of balance
- Nausea or vomiting
- Sensitivity to light or noise
- Memory problems
These symptoms typically resolve within a few days or weeks as the brain recovers from the temporary disruption in function caused by the concussion. However, it’s crucial to seek medical attention, as repeated concussions or a more severe one can increase the risk of long-term complications.
Diagnosing and Treating Head Injuries
When diagnosing a traumatic brain injury, your doctor will likely perform a neurological exam, ask about your symptoms, and review the circumstances surrounding the head injury. In some cases, imaging tests like CT scans or MRIs may be ordered to rule out more severe brain injuries.
Treatment of head injuries largely depends on the severity and symptoms of your brain injury. However, whether you have a concussion or TBI, The primary treatment for concussions is rest, both physical and mental, to allow the brain to heal. Pain medications can help manage headaches, but you should avoid any activities that could cause another head injury until your symptoms have fully resolved.
Causes and Types of TBIs
TBIs can result from various causes, including:
- Falls
- Motor vehicle accidents
- Sports–related injuries
- Assaults or acts of violence
These injuries can range from mild to severe, with different types of TBIs based on the extent and location of brain damage.
For example, a contusion is a bruise on the brain, while a coup–contrecoup injury involves bruising on both sides of the brain due to the force of impact. More severe TBIs can also involve skull fractures or penetrating injuries.
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Long-Term Consequences of TBIs
Unlike concussions, which typically resolve within weeks, the effects of a TBI can be long-lasting or even permanent. Depending on the severity and location of the injury, potential long-term consequences may include:
- Cognitive impairments (memory, attention, problem-solving)
- Motor skill deficits (balance, coordination, muscle weakness)
- Sensory issues (vision, hearing, taste, or smell problems)
- Emotional and behavioral changes (depression, anxiety, impulsivity)
- Communication difficulties (aphasia, impaired speech)
In the most severe cases, a TBI can result in a persistent vegetative state or coma. Intensive rehabilitation and ongoing medical care are often required to manage the lasting effects of a TBI, which can significantly impact a person’s quality of life and ability to work or engage in daily activities.
Steps to Take Following a Concussion or TBI
Getting medical care is the most vital step to take following a brain injury. With medical care, the difference between concussion and TBI in recovery is that individuals suffering a concussion will likely achieve recovery sooner.
However, a full recovery is possible with immediate professional care after a TBI. After experiencing any brain injury or injury, like whiplash, that can cause a mild TBI, take these steps:
- Seek medical attention promptly and follow the physician’s care plan
- Complete all testing, imaging, and diagnostic procedures
- Participate in prescribed rehabilitative therapies
- Rest and allow your body to heal
- Document or have a loved one capture the extent of your damage in writing, pictures, and video
- Retain a copy of all invoices and expenses
- Get a copy of a police report if one is issued
- Document the accident causing your injuries
A Long Island brain injury attorney at Levine And Wiss can help with these steps and determine other steps to take when documenting your injuries. Following applicable laws, our firm will also file any notices of action within the prescribed timelines.
Contacting our team as soon as possible allows us to help build the strongest claim possible.
Speak to a Brain Injury Lawyer in Long Island
No matter the severity of your head injury, it’s essential to seek prompt medical attention and follow your doctor’s recommendations for treatment and recovery. If you or a loved one has suffered a brain injury due to someone else’s negligence, you don’t have to face it alone.
Our experienced Long Island brain injury lawyers can help you understand your legal rights and options for pursuing compensation for your injuries and associated costs.
Contact Levine And Wiss to schedule a free initial consultation. Your physical and financial recovery is a priority. We can also discuss the difference between TBI and concussion in a personal injury claim and your potential compensation.
