Most Common Cognitive Problems After a TBI

What is Cognitive Function?

Cognitive function is a broad term that refers to a person’s thinking, absorption of information, and reasoning abilities. These brain-based skills are necessary for everyday life, and when someone sustains a traumatic brain injury (TBI), it can cause cognitive impairment. Here are the facts you need to know about TBIs and cognitive function.

How Do TBIs Happen?

Before understanding how a TBI impacts cognitive function, it is vital to understand how a TBI happens. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), a TBI occurs when an individual sustains a bump, blow, jolt, or penetrating injury to the head. People most commonly get TBIs from the following:

• Motor vehicle accidents
• Assaults
• Falls
• Firearm-related suicides

How Does a Traumatic Brain Injury Impact Cognitive Abilities?

Someone with a TBI may experience the following effects on their cognitive abilities:

• Lack of concentration and attention
• Difficulties processing and understanding information
• Problems with memory (short or long-term)
• Challenges with planning, organizing, or assembling
• Diminished ability to reason, problem-solve and make decisions
• Difficulties with judgment
• Difficulties with communicating thoughts and ideas in which others can understand

Someone with a TBI may also exhibit behavioral problems and may not decipher whether or not their behavior is socially acceptable. According to The National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI), anger and aggressive outbursts are common problems in people who have suffered from a traumatic brain injury.

Are Cognitive Issues Treatable After a TBI?

Someone living with a TBI may benefit from the following treatments and therapies to help manage and improve cognitive function:

Medications:

• Anti-anxiety medications to lessen feelings of nervousness
• Antidepressants to treat mood disorders
• Stimulants to increase alertness and attention

Rehabilitation Therapies

• Occupational therapy to learn or relearn daily tasks like cooking, bathing, etc.
• Speech therapy to increase the ability to form words
• Psychological counseling to improve emotional well-being, learn coping skills, and assist with interpersonal relationships
• Cognitive therapies to improve memory, attention, perception, and planning

Do I Need a Lawyer After Suffering a TBI?

When a TBI is caused by someone else’s wrongful actions, having an experienced brain injury lawyer in your corner can help you navigate the legal process and allow you to seek the maximum compensation you deserve under the law. From medical expenses and rehabilitation costs to lost income and pain and suffering, Bandas Law Firm, P.C. is here to help you every step of the way.

If you or a loved one has sustained a traumatic brain injury due to the negligence of another party, you may be entitled to receive compensation for your injuries. Managing Partner Christopher Bandas is a highly regarded member of the legal community and rated “Distinguished” by his peers in the Martindale-Hubbell® publication. No case is too big or too small, and our team is prepared to handle your case.