Many parents take care to prevent child injury. From helmets, to car seats, and even safety gates on stairs, children are often kept protected with various safety devices. But sometimes, even for the most cautious parents and kids, accidents can happen – and when they do, traumatic brain injury (TBI) can be problematic for the child’s lifetime.

Now, according to a new study, if a child sustains a traumatic brain injury, a lifetime of problems can ensue – from communication problems to trouble with self-care. The study also explained that a traumatic brain injury could also contribute to “substantial long-term reduction” in the quality of the child’s life.

The method of prevention is clear: “Many of these injuries can be prevented by using bicycle helmets, and kids being buckled up in seatbelts, making sure there are gates on stairways,” said study author and professor of pediatrics at the University of Washington School of Public Health in Seattle. But nevertheless, accidents can still happen, especially if the child is subjected to an unsafe environment at school, in sports, or in a car accident that was ruled as someone else’s fault.

The study compared 729 children under 18 years old who were at once treated for brain injuries at emergency rooms between 2007 and 2008. Most of the injuries were a result of car accidents and falls – fortunately, very few brain injuries occurred as a result of abuse.

For the children who were monitored, functionality before and after the accident were analyzed b y tests that evaluated various skill sets and behaviors. The study also included data on any child depression or trouble concentrating.

In addition to psychological analyses, the children were also evaluated on whether or not they could “have a conversation, discuss a topic,” in addition to their daily activities. For children who experienced a TBI compared to those who did not, everyday activities were difficult for those children including day-to-day life, sports, and school activities. Children with a TBI had “a lower quality of life than children undergoing active treatment for cancer, the researchers said.” That’s why it’s never been so important to identify a TBI as soon as possible to treat your injured child.

How to recognize a traumatic brain injury

Knowing how to recognize a traumatic brain injury can help you seek appropriate medical care as soon as possible. If your child has a head injury, it’s important to recognize their symptoms and act as soon as possible to help alleviate any potential long-term effects. A traumatic brain injury can cause:

  • Incessant crying
  • Child complaints of neck pain
  • Child complaints of headache/head pain
  • Vomiting
  • Sleepiness
  • Chills
  • Irregular walking

If you feel your child has been injured in a fall or accident, and you suspect it is due to someone else’s fault, call Pines Salomon Injury Lawyers, APC.. Every personal injury lawyer at our firm is dedicated to recovering the maximum compensation possible for your claim. Call us now at 1-858-551-2090 for a free, confidential legal evaluation.