One of the more common injuries throughout the United States, including victims from the North New Jersey area, are traumatic brain injuries, or TBIs. Figures suggest that approximately 1.7 million Americans find themselves in the hospital or doctor’s office to be treated for brain injuries.
Brain injuries come in two forms, open and closed. The brain is protected by a very strong shell, known as the skull. While the skull can withstand some serious impacts, if an impact is serious enough to fracture the skull, it is called an open brain injury. Such injuries are often catastrophic in nature, and could lead to lifelong permanent disabilities or even death.
Less severe impacts to the head which do not fracture the skull are called closed brain injuries, but that does not necessarily mean they are any less serious. It is not uncommon for the brain to strike the inside of the skull during an impact, which could lead to brain swelling or even blood clots in the brain, both very serious. Such injuries are often harder to diagnose, as there may not be any visible or noticeable injury to the naked eye. Common symptoms for victims include confusion or memory loss, severe headaches, dizziness and nausea. If untreated, the symptoms could worsen, and could lead to long-term or even life-long disabilities.
Anyone who is suffering from a brain injury that prohibits them from maintaining gainful employment and is expected to last at least a year or ultimately end in death may want to consider seeking financial assistance via Social Security. There are various programs available, including SSDI benefits for brain injury, that could help a victim who is fighting the injury.
