Long-Term Costs of Traumatic Brain Injuries

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs) can happen in an instant. One moment, everything is fine, the next, a car crash can lead to a long-term hospital stay, or a fall off a ladder can lead to the need for a wheelchair. TBIs are an unexpected condition, yet can lead to drastic life changes.

Long-Term Effects

The potential long-term effects of TBI are numerous and can include a range of symptoms involving changes in cognitive functioning, motor functioning, sensation, and behavior. These long-term symptoms can including:

• Change in emotional behavior
• Depression and anxiety
• The need for a wheelchair
• Deficiencies in coordination and balance.
• Difficulty speaking and processing new information.
• Problems enunciating and finding words.
• Change or loss of vision
• Impairment with perception and touch
• Changes in hearing
• Long term care and modifications for his disabilities.
• Regular therapy and rehabilitation
• Memory loss
• Personality changes

Many people, if suffering from mild TBI, can recover over a period of time. Rest is essential. People who suffer from more severe TBIs may have to go through rehabilitation. The timeline for recovery varies depending on the severity of the TBI and the health of the person. The lasting effects of TBI symptoms may still stick around for extended periods of time.

Numerous Ongoing Costs

The costs of a brain injury are often numerous and can extend well beyond the initial medical treatments. According to the American Association of Neurological Surgeons, the estimated overall costs of brain injuries comes out to $76.5 billion, annually. These direct and indirect costs may include:

• Surgeries
• Long hospital stays
• The period of time spent in a medically-induced coma
• Physical therapy
• Costs of lifestyle changes (needs for disabilities)
• Psychiatrist
• Medication

In addition to monetary costs, brain injuries negatively impact people’s quality of life, academic or work prospects, relationships, driving, and day-to-day functioning. The long-term effects include costly lifestyle changes.

Contact a Brain Injury Attorney Today

If you or a loved one have suffered brain damage as a result of someone else’s negligence, you are urged to contact the Indianapolis Brain Injury Attorneys of Wilson Kehoe Winingham. The lawyers at WKW can help you get the compensation you deserve. Call 317.920.6400 or fill out an online contact form for a free, no-obligation case evaluation.

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