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What Causes a Brain Injury?

December 19, 2019 – Matt Albrecht

Brain injuries are among the most common and most challenging types of injuries. According to data from the American Speech, Language, Hearing Association (ASLA), as many as 5.3 million Americans are currently dealing with the effects of a TBI-related disability or impairment. Unfortunately, many people struggle to get access to adequate care for their brain injury. 

One of the major challenges is that injured victims often do not understand the extent and severity of their injuries. Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) can occur in many different ways. If you or your loved one is showing any signs or symptoms of a brain injury, it is imperative that you seek professional medical attention. 

An Overview of the Four Most Common Causes of Brain Injuries

1. Blunt Force Trauma

Blunt force trauma is the leading cause of brain injuries. Essentially, blunt force trauma is a blow to the head. It can occur in many different circumstances—from motor vehicle crashes to slip and fall accidents. As it is a closed head injury, a brain injury caused by blunt force trauma can be especially challenging to diagnose. 

2. Penetration of the Skull

A penetrating brain injury is always a medical emergency. If a foreign object penetrates the skull and causes damage to the brain, it can cause severe harm. Depending on the precise location and extent of the penetration, these injuries may impact a small part of the brain or virtually the entire brain.

3. Loss of Oxygen

Without oxygen, the human brain will shut down and permanent damage can occur. Even if oxygen is cut off for a relatively short period of time, the consequences can be catastrophic. If a person is temporarily deprived of oxygen in an accident—for example, if there is a major fire—they may suffer a brain injury. Some other examples of situations that can result in a person losing oxygen are swimming pool accidents and botched medical procedures. 

4. Exposure to Toxic Substances

Finally, exposure to dangerous or toxic substances also has the potential to result in severe brain damage. From chemical exposures in the workplace to defective drugs, toxic substances entering the bloodstream can cause long-term brain damage.  

All Head Injuries Require Immediate Medical Attention

A serious head injury should always be examined by a qualified physician. Brain injuries are notoriously difficult to diagnose. Not only do these types of injuries manifest themselves in a wide range of different ways, but concussions/TBIs also have a tendency to occur with a delayed onset—meaning a person may actually be far more seriously injured than they initially appeared after an accident. Whether it is you or someone you care about, make sure that a suspected brain injury is evaluated by a doctor. 

Speak to a Washington Brain Injury Lawyer Today

At‌ ‌Albrecht‌ ‌Law‌ ‌PLLC,‌ our Spokane personal injury attorneys are skilled, compassionate advocates for injured victims and their families. We have extensive experience handling catastrophic injury claims, including brain injury cases. To set up a free, no obligation case evaluation, please contact our law firm right away. Call (509) 495-1246. From our office in Spokane, we handle brain injury claims throughout Eastern Washington. 

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