A traumatic brain injury (TBI) can affect every aspect of your life—work, school, relationships, and even your own sense of independence. Most common in car accidents and construction accidents, the symptoms most typically displayed are dizziness, irregular breathing, poor balance, lack of coordination, and lessened endurance. But a new study has revealed some other symptoms that may make it difficult for our veterans when it comes to receiving a TBI diagnosis, especially if they suffered through a traumatic event while protecting our country.
Symptom Similarities between TBI and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
TBIs and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) both affect the brain, but while one is the result of a traumatic injury, the other is the result of a traumatic event. Still, a study published in the journal Psych Central found some odd similarities between the symptoms of both disorders, including aggression and destructive or reckless behavior. The overlapping of these symptoms, paired with other symptoms that may be misunderstood, could have serious implications for veterans.
The Potential for Confusion between PTSD and TBI Diagnoses
If a person has suffered both a traumatic injury and a traumatic event, it would be easy for a physician to misread the signs of TBI. For example, the numbness of emotions and feelings, along with the depersonalization frequently seen with TBIs could be misconstrued as the avoidance of potentially triggering situations often seen in PTSD. This could easily lead to a misdiagnosis, as well as the wrong type of treatment for the condition. Depending on the severity of the injury, it could also lead to severe complications due to lack of proper treatment.
TBI Sufferers at Higher Risk of PTSD
Another big concern is that, according to the study, sufferers of TBI are more likely also to suffer from PTSD. Much like a traumatic event could lead to a missed diagnosis of TBI, sufferers of TBI may also find themselves struggling to receive a PTSD diagnosis when it is needed. Again, this can lead to improper treatment and could have severe complications for victims.
Seek Professional Help with Your Personal Injury Case
Whether you are a veteran who may be suffering from TBI after PTSD, or someone who has received a TBI diagnosis, it is important that you seek skilled legal counsel. Much like other personal injury cases, TBIs can be complex. However, because the implications of TBI are far-reaching and potentially long-term, it is important to have an attorney that is familiar with the severity and longevity of TBIs.
We have worked with several traumatic brain injury sufferers, and we are skilled in the litigation process. We only work with highly trained experts in the fields of diagnosis and treatment of TBI, which can help to display the extent of your injuries to the court. To discuss your injury with one of our attorneys, call us for your free consultation at 312-553-4900 today.
Source:
http://www.chicagobraininjurylawyerblog.com/2015/08/ptsd_and_tbi_show_similar_symp.html
