California Contusion Lawyers
Contusion
The simplest definition of a cerebral contusion is a bruise on the brain. Everyone has had a bruise at some point in his or her life, but when bruises occur on the brain, the consequences can be a lot more serious than just some discoloration and tenderness.
Major Causes of Brain Contusion
Contusions of the brain are typically observed in connection with the following types of head injuries:
- Coup contrecoup injuries caused by a blow to the head
A coup injury is a localized contusion that occurs at the site of impact while a contrecoup injury is a contusion that occurs opposite the site of impact. In specific cases, both types of injury may occur almost simultaneously. During an auto accident, for instance, the brain may collide with both sides of the skull to produce two injuries.
- Abuse
Perhaps the most well known example is shaken baby syndrome. The violent movement of the head can cause the brain to move within the skull. Blood vessels break as a result, and a contusion develops.
Signs of a Brain Contusion
Many of the symptoms of brain contusions and concussions are quite similar. Signs that bruising on the brain has occurred include the following:
- Dilation of a single pupil
- Sudden weakness in the extremities
- Memory loss or general forgetfulness
- Dizziness
- Intense headaches
- Changes in mood or disposition (irritability and restlessness are commonly observed)
- Unconsciousness
- Drowsiness
- Confusion
Distinguishing Characteristics of a Brain Contusion
Even though the symptoms of a contusion and a concussion are similar, they are very different types of brain injuries. One of the hallmarks of a contusion is that it is a localized injury, meaning a very specific portion of the brain is affected. Another characteristic of contusions is that they are visible on CT and MRI scans. The area where the contusion occurred and the extent of the bruising can be determined using these imaging techniques.
Brain Contusion Treatment
There is no single treatment for all contusions. Doctors might simply closely observe small bruises until they heal, but serious contusions will require treatment that is more aggressive. Some possible treatments for severe contusions include performing surgery to relieve intracranial pressure, intubating the patient or giving transfusions of blood. Contusions can cause hemorrhages, and some can even be fatal, so an examination by a physician is essential any time an individual sustains a blow to the head.
If you or a loved one has suffered a serious brain contusion in California, you may be entitled to monetary compensation and should contact an experienced California brain injury lawyer at The Brain Injury Legal Help Center to discuss your situation and get answers to your case related questions. Call today at (800) 610-1892.