St Louis Dog Bite Attorney
Traumatic Brain Injury – Concussion Resulting From A Dog Attack
The most common type of traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a concussion, which is usually caused by a blow, jolt, or bump to the head. Although a concussion is considered a "mild" brain injury due to typically not being life-threatening, the possible consequences can still be severe, altering how a person's brain normally functions. When a large breed of dog charges an individual, it can be a very frightening experience in which the dog can easily over-power you. It is not uncommon for the larger dogs to knock over an individual during an attack, during which the individual can strike their head against an object, wall, or the concrete ground.
How Brain Injury Occurs
The rapid, sudden movement of the head as it hits the ground, a wall or other stationary object causes the same such movement of the brain around the brainstem. This, in turn, results in great rotational force on the brain which can disrupt nerve fibers within the brain and cause a loss of consciousness.
Concussion Symptoms
Regardless of how mild a concussion may be, immediate medical attention is necessary to ensure that any required treatment and care is received in a timely manner. Symptoms may occur immediately after a concussion or later, but, in either case, a concussion can have various physical, mental and emotional symptoms. Some of the most common include:
- sudden loss of consciousness;
- confusion;
- vomiting or nausea;
- slurred speech;
- headache;
- poor balance or dizziness;
- noise sensitivity;
- memory loss;
- light sensitivity; and
- mood or personality changes.
Concussion Prognosis and Treatment
Recovery-time from a concussion varies; it may take a few days or even a week or two. During that time the concussion victim may experience various symptoms, such as those mentioned above. In some cases, problems or symptoms persist for months after the concussion, the most common being headaches.
Although the severity of the brain injury determines what treatment is necessary, rest and time off from day-to-day activities is usually recommended. There are various medications that may also be helpful in the case of a concussion. Doctors may recommend that a concussion victim take Advil/Motrin (Ibuprofen) or Tylenol (Acetaminophen) for headaches and/or Phenergan (Promethazine) or Zofran (Ondansetron) for nausea.
Effective Legal Counsel and Representation
The St. Louis dog bite attorneys at Page Law have the experience, skills and resources to help dog attack victims seek the maximum compensation they need and deserve. If you or a loved one has suffered a concussion as the result of an animal attack or any other incident resulting from the negligence of another, our lawyers can help you understand your legal rights and options. Call (314) 322-8515 today for a consultation.
