A serious car accident may result in a wide range of injuries. Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is particularly damaging, as it can have lasting effects that limit mobility as well as cognition.
According to the Mayo Clinic, TBI treatments vary according to the seriousness of the injury. Understanding different treatments is a must if you or a loved one experiences TBI.
Emergency Medical Care
All moderate to severe TBI should receive immediate medical care. This entails stabilizing neck injuries, stopping bleeding, and reducing inflammation. Medications are also common when administering treatment, including diuretics to control pressure within the brain.
Surgery
After addressing immediate medical issues, doctors may perform surgery to repair the damage. Skull fractures can require surgery to stabilize tissues and prevent further bleeding. Increased pressure may result in skull surgery, which entails placing a drain to remove accumulating fluid. Uncontrolled bleeding also requires surgery, often sutures or stitches.
Rehab and Therapy
TBI can cause long-term effects, depending on the severity of the damage. In this case, medical staff might recommend:
Physical Therapy
A physical therapist can help restore mobility and balance, which is essential if the injury affected the patient’s ability to walk.
Occupational Therapy
An occupational therapist is integral in re-learning basic tasks and activities in the event of severe, lasting injuries.
Speech and Language Therapy
If the injury affected the parts of the brain covering communication, a speech and language therapist can help restore some or all of a person’s communication ability.
Neuropsychology
A neuropsychologist assists with cognitive dysfunction, while also providing new coping mechanisms to TBI patients.
It is also important that patients have a healthy support network surrounding them. Coping with the effects of TBI is often difficult, but the right support can reduce stress and anxiety surrounding the recovery process.
