Sustaining a traumatic brain injury can have extensive consequences on your livelihood. TBIs can impact your emotions, physical abilities and information processing capabilities. Depending on the severity of your injury, you may be in recovery for years, possibly even a lifetime.
Thankfully, there are plenty of ways that health care professionals can treat brain damage and rehabilitate you. Plus, you can seek reimbursement for these medical costs through a personal injury claim. Here is some information on the healing process.
Mild injuries
According to the Mayo Clinic, minor brain injuries often do not require treatment besides resting and taking pain relievers. However, even in this circumstance, you should have follow-up appointments with your doctor to ensure nothing worsens. Your doctor may advise you to refrain from cognitive and physical activities for a period of time. Most individuals who sustain mild TBIs return to their normal daily life.
Moderate to severe injuries
However, if your injury is more serious, you should receive emergency medical care. Treatment and recovery of a moderate to severe TBI often includes a combination of medication and rehabilitation. Your outlook depends largely on the extent of the damage and how promptly you receive treatment.
Medication
Here are some common drugs doctors administer and prescribe for brain injuries:
- Diuretics, to reduce pressure in the brain
- Anti-seizure medications, to prevent any further brain damage due to a risk of seizures
- Prescription pain pills, to relieve pain and discomfort
Sometimes, doctors induce TBI patients into temporary comas, because a comatose brain can function with less oxygen.
Rehabilitation
Brain damage can make it hard for you to perform daily activities. Rehabilitation specialists can help you re-learn basic tasks. Physical therapy is common to help you re-learn how to walk, balance and move. Language and speech therapy is sometimes necessary, as brain injuries can impact your ability to speak and understand language. Sometimes, occupational therapy is helpful to assist you in getting back to work.
