It was not so long ago that a blow to the head was thought to be a short-lived event with no long-term consequences. That phrase that “Johnny was just not the same” after he got knocked out has taken on new meaning as the understanding of the intricacies of the brain have advanced.
What sometimes seems to be an innocent bump to the head can carry long term consequences. When one sees stars after such a collision, it is time to take note, and to take action.
Any trauma to the brain has to be taken seriously. There is no slight blow to the delicate tissue of the organ whose alteration, no matter how slight, can have profound consequences. Modern medicine has taught us that it is dangerous, no, it is not very smart, to ignore even the slightest loss of consciousness. When this occurs, get to a doctor, and get to one immediately.
The biggest problem which many who have suffered a brain injury encounter is that no one recognizes that a loss of consciousness has occurred. Hospital personnel note no “LOC” in an injured worker’s chart, but that history is most often based upon a statement from the very person who lost consciousness, and then reports that he or she does not recall losing consciousness.
Recognize that a loss of consciousness does not require that a person be found on the ground with his or her eyes closed. A loss of consciousness occurs whenever one loses a sense of his or her surroundings. Think of it as being out on your feet. Whenever anyone is unable to recount what happened after a blow to the head that person has likely suffered a loss of consciousness and accompanying TBI, traumatic brain injury.
Do not be discouraged by the skepticism that a victim of a TBI encounters. Diagnostic testing for a TBI is lacking. Unlike a broken bone, a ruptured disc, or a torn rotator cuff, a TBI is not apparent in conventional diagnostic testing. That does not mean that it does not exist; it means that it is difficult to prove.
If a family member or friend suffers such an injury at work do not dismiss it as something that will pass. Be certain that the history is accurately recorded in the medical records, and look for signs of a traumatic brain injury –short-term memory loss; irritability; inability to recall the “right” word; and/or an inability to perform multiple seemingly simple tasks at the same time. These are symptoms of a TBI, and need to be taken seriously, and treated immediately.
If you or someone you know has suffered a head injury at work you may be entitled to Massachusetts workers’ compensation payments for disability and/or medical care. Speak with a highly experienced workers’ compensation lawyer, by contacting a personal injury lawer at Parker Scheer LLP seven days a week, toll free at 866-414-0400. There is no fee charged to discuss your case, and all information furnished, will be kept strictly confidential.
