What You Can Expect During Recovery from a Head Injury

Head injuries are common as the result of motor vehicle accidents, slips and falls, or being struck by or against objects, such as when engaged in sports or recreational pursuits. When even a minor bump, blow, or jolt to the head occurs, it can cause disruptions in the brain that impact every area of your life. These injuries do have the potential to be life-threatening, so seeking medical care immediately is important. Once you have received a diagnosis, the following outlines what you can expect during your recovery. 

Diagnosing Head Injuries: the First Step in the Recovery Process

Head injuries are nothing to take lightly. Even an otherwise minor accident can leave you with a concussion or a skull fracture, resulting in traumatic brain injury (TBI). Signs of TBI can be subtle, often leading patients to neglect getting the medical attention they need. 

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) advises that there are a variety of diagnostic tests available to detect brain injuries and the impact it is likely to have on your health and in other areas of your life. These include: 

• Imaging tests, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computerized tomography (CT or ‘CAT’ scan), that can determine if there is any swelling or bleeding in the brain;
• Speech and language tests, which evaluates communication skills along with the muscles that control your ability to swallow;
• Cognition and neuropsychological tests, which determine the impact your injury has on your personality, memory, and thought processes. 

Recovering from Head Injuries

Even a mild head injury can take months to recover from and may result in permanent disabilities. In addition to being unable to work or perform certain tasks on your job, Brainline advises that you may require help in doing otherwise simple household tasks, such as cleaning, cooking, or attending to personal hygiene. 

Head and brain injuries can also impact your memory and thought processes, while causing sleep disturbances and significant changes mood. This can lead to feelings of isolation or anxiety, bouts of depression, and angry outbursts. Options that can help you during your recovery include: 

• Rehabilitative therapy, to build strength and relearn important tasks;
• Medications, which can aid with sleep and help to combat depression and anxiety;
• Support groups, which can help you adjust while providing assurance that you are not alone.  

Let Us Help You Today

If you have suffered a head injury as the result of an accident, Brassfield & Krueger, Ltd. is here to help. Contact our Rockford, IL personal injury attorneys and request a consultation to discuss your options in seeking the compensation you need to recover.