Want to know the greatest difference between a non-traumatic acquired brain injury (ABI) and a traumatic brain injury (TBI)? It all comes down to where the injury came from: ABIs are caused by internal factors, while TBIs are caused by external factors.
Keep reading to learn more, then connect with a West Palm Beach brain injury lawyer from Lytal, Reiter, Smith, Ivey & Fronrath. We can help you understand the cause and effects of your acquired or traumatic brain injury, a critical element in securing a settlement to cover your losses and bring you justice.
Definitions
Though the brain is protected by layers of bone, tissue, and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), it is still vulnerable to damage from conditions existing inside or outside the body. Depending on the cause, one may suffer a non-traumatic acquired brain injury (ABI) or a traumatic brain injury (TBI).
Non-traumatic acquired brain injury (ABI)
A non-traumatic acquired brain injury is any injury to the brain that occurs after birth and is not the result of:
- A congenital disorder
- A degenerative disease
- Brain trauma at birth
In other words, to be considered an ABI, damage to the brain must originate from an internal source. The following are common causes of ABI:
- Meningitis, encephalitis, or another infection
- Lack of oxygen to the brain
- Stroke
- Brain tumor
- Aneurysm
- Inhaling toxins
- Ingesting drugs, including cocaine, methamphetamine, and others
- Medical malpractice due to misdiagnosis
Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
A (TBI) results from an external source–an external blow that damages the brain. These injuries occur when something outside the body disrupts the normal, healthy function of the brain through a bump, jolt, blow, or from an object penetrating the brain, such as a bullet.
TBIs have a variety of causes. Some of the more common ones include:
- A fall from a high place or a tumble downstairs
- Motor vehicle crashes
- Being struck by an object, such as falling debris on a construction site
- Penetrating weapons, such as bullets
- Explosions or blasts
- Medical malpractice
Whether someone suffers a serious ABI or TBI, they are likely to face significant physical and cognitive disabilities.
ABI and TBI: Symptoms and effects
Acquired brain injury vs traumatic brain injury – the human body recognizes both as deadly injuries that must be healed quickly. You must receive prompt medical attention because these injuries often affect:
- Cognitive function
- Language abilities
- Memory, attention, and processing capabilities
It is important to recognize that symptoms do not always present immediately, and some don’t even cause loss of consciousness. If you or a loved one experiences a blow or jolt to the head, see a doctor even if you do not see symptoms right away. Delaying treatment can worsen your condition, bringing increased or even deadly results.
Symptoms of brain injury include:
- Nausea or vomiting
- Dizziness or weakness
- Slurred speech
- Blurred or otherwise affected vision
- Unsteady gait
- Confusion
- Numbness or tingling in arms and legs
- Seizures
- Blood or other fluids draining from the ears or nose
Victims of ABIs, both traumatic and non-traumatic, can experience a range of severe and potentially permanent effects.
Lifelong damage
The damage incurred by an ABI or TBI can prevent victims from earning income, caring for themselves independently, interacting with loved ones, and participating in life as they did before becoming injured.
When someone else is at fault for your injury, they need to be held accountable. To ensure you are compensated fairly – which will allow you access to continued healthcare developments and a stable financial future – connect with a brain injury attorney in West Palm Beach.
Do you or a loved one have a brain injury? We can help.
When you or a loved one experiences an acquired brain injury, the anxiety and fear for the future can be overwhelming. But there is help. Reach out to a West Palm Beach brain injury lawyer from Lytal, Reiter, Smith, Ivey & Fronrath for a free consultation. Just call (561) 655-1990 or send us a message.
If someone else’s negligence caused your injury, your attorney will work to get you the settlement you need. Fair compensation will support you through rehabilitation and as you work toward maximum recovery and allow you to face your future with financial security.
