Is There a Difference Between Adult and Childhood Severe Brain Injury?
A severe brain injury is a leading cause of disability and death in the United States. Although adults are more likely to die from a severe brain injury, children are likely to experience developmental delays.
If you have a family member, young or old, who has experienced a severe brain injury, you need a Morristown traumatic brain injury lawyer to fight on your behalf. The legal team at Leonard Legal Group will give your case the time and attention it deserves.
What Causes a Traumatic Brain Injury?
A traumatic brain injury (TBI) is often the result of a blow to the head. Due to the force of impact, the brain will move back and forth rapidly in the skull, resulting in bruising, bleeding, or nerve fibers tearing in the brain. A delayed effect can be brain swelling, causing the brain to push against the skull.
As a result of the increased intracranial pressure, many times, a patient’s blood pressure will increase in the body’s attempt to deliver oxygen to the brain. In response, a patient’s heart rate will often slow down, known as bradycardia. Bradycardia is usually accompanied by lightheadedness, fatigue, and shortness of breath. It is dangerous if left untreated.
Side Effects in Children Versus Adults
Developing brains are still forming connections between brain cells, known as myelination. Since the connections between brain cells (neurons) are still forming, a concussion can often be more serious in children, frequently causing memory loss for an extended period. When a TBI compromises brain development, a child may have deterioration in cognition and their overall health.
Children also have larger heads in proportion to the rest of their body, resulting in weaker neck muscles trying to hold up their heads. Since the weight of a child’s head affects how they fall, their heads are more prone to injury.
Although both children and adults may experience mood changes and neurological symptoms, the two groups vary in other physical symptoms:
Children:
- Irritability
- Drowsiness
- Insomnia
Adults:
- Headache
- Balance and coordination problems
- Fatigue
Your Morristown, New Jersey Traumatic Brain Injury Lawyer
Whether you have had a traumatic brain injury affect a friend, family member, or your own child, there is no way to reverse the initial injury. The financial toll of rehabilitation following a brain injury can be debilitating. The attorneys at Leonard Legal Group know you are facing life-changing circumstances and are here to help. Scott Leonard is a board-certified civil trial attorney and has been handling traumatic brain injuries for over 25 years and can help you get the compensation you deserve. Contact us today to receive your initial free consultation. Weekend and evening appointments are available.