WHAT IS AN ANOXIC BRAIN INJURY?
The brain requires a continuous supply of oxygen to function. An anoxic brain injury occurs when the supply of oxygen is disrupted, meaning that oxygen cannot reach the brain. Anoxic and hypoxic are often used interchangeably, but they have different meanings. Anoxic brain injuries mean that no oxygen can reach the brain. If there is a partial supply of oxygen, this is classed as a hypoxic brain injury.
It is rare to recover fully from an anoxic brain injury. Statistics show that over 5 million people are living with a disability caused by a brain injury in the US (source).
WHAT CAUSES ANOXIC BRAIN INJURY?
There are multiple causes of anoxic brain injuries, including:
- Cardiac arrest
- Poisoning
- Irregular heart rhythm
- Low blood pressure
- Smoke inhalation
- Almost drowning
- Electric shock
- Drug overdose
- Strangulation
- Choking
- Carbon monoxide inhalation
- Severe asthma attack
- A traumatic attack
- Oxygen deprivation at birth
- Stroke
Symptoms of an anoxic brain injury may include:
- Severe headache
- Loss of concentration
- Seizures
- Lack of coordination
- Disturbed sleep
- Dizziness
- Confusion
- Vomiting
WHEN TO SEEK LEGAL ADVICE FOR AN ANOXIC BRAIN INJURY?
In many cases, anoxic brain injuries result from underlying or acute health issues, which cannot be prevented. In some cases, however, they can be caused by other people. If negligence is a factor, it may be possible to claim compensation and it is important to seek legal advice. An experienced attorney will be able to tell you whether or not you have a viable claim. If they think you have a strong case, and you wish to proceed, they will start gathering evidence and building your case.
Some examples of scenarios that involve brain injuries caused by others include:
- Medical malpractice
- Medical negligence
- Violence or traumatic attacks that result in physical injuries
- Employer negligence
- Manufacturer negligence
WHAT ARE THE EFFECTS OF AN ANOXIC BRAIN INJURY?
Every individual is different. There is no universal recovery blueprint for an anoxic brain injury, but it is rare to make a full recovery. In many cases, people who sustain an anoxic brain injury experience long-term effects, as well as the short-term symptoms listed above. Possible effects of anoxic brain injuries include:
- Changes in behavior
- Limb weakness
- Loss of balance and coordination
- Speech difficulties
- Memory loss
- New fears and phobias
- Increased susceptibility to headaches
- Elevated risk of depression and anxiety
- Difficulty recognizing familiar people, objects, places or animals
Recovery from an anoxic brain injury will often depend on the severity of the injury, the age of the individual, their health status and the part or parts of the brain affected.
HOW DO BRAIN INJURY LAWYERS HELP?
Brain injuries are often very complex and they cause major distress for individuals and their families. Brain injury lawyers specialize in brain injuries and they have specific knowledge and skills that enable them to assist clients who have sustained significant injuries, such as an anoxic brain injury. Here are some important ways brain injury lawyers can help:
Specific skills and experience
Experienced lawyers understand and recognize the impact of anoxic brain injuries and they are there to advise and support at what is an incredibly difficult and stressful time.
Building the strongest case possible
One of the main benefits of hiring a brain injury lawyer is increasing the chances of claiming compensation. To make a successful claim, the client has to be able to prove that somebody else was negligent. The expert lawyers at Wells Trumbull know how to build a strong case and they will work day in, day out to collect the relevant evidence and fight for their client.
Securing all the damages to which the individual is entitled
Brain injury cases are usually more complicated than other personal injury claims because the healing process often takes longer and it can be more unpredictable. Long-term effects and life-changing injuries are also more common. Enlisting the help of brain injury lawyers helps individuals to secure the full compensation to which they are entitled. Damages may include:
- Physical pain and mental health symptoms
- Past, present and future medical and healthcare costs
- Emotional trauma
- Loss of earnings
CONCLUSION
An anoxic brain injury occurs when oxygen supply to the brain is interrupted, increasing the risk of brain damage. Brain injuries can have long-term, life-changing effects. If you have sustained a brain injury, which was caused by another person or negligence on the part of others, it’s beneficial to seek legal advice.
Contact the Wells Trumbull legal team today to schedule a free case evaluation.