Traumatic Brain Injury and Vertigo
A traumatic brain injury is any injury that disrupts the normal function of the brain. Symptoms may range in severity and can include disorientation, blurry vision, slurred speech, and changes in behavior. Another potential symptom of a traumatic brain injury is vertigo, or extreme dizziness.
If an individual experiences vertigo following a traumatic brain injury, they may be suffering from a vestibular disorder. A vestibular disorder causes balance and spatial awareness problems, which can significantly impact a person’s quality of life.
Victims of traumatic brain injury and vertigo can work with the Kirkland, WA, attorneys at Quick Law Group, PLLC to seek financial compensation for damages related to such injuries.
Causes of Vertigo after a Traumatic Brain Injury
Traumatic brain injuries are most often caused by a significant blow to the head, though a penetration injury, such as a puncture or bullet wound, could also damage brain tissues. When the head is struck at a high force, the brain is likely to move around inside the skull, and tissues can be damaged.
Short episodes of dizziness are common after a traumatic brain injury, and can be linked to vision problems, hypotension, or even medication use. However, if a person experiences persistent vertigo after a traumatic brain injury, the vestibular system may have been impacted.
The vestibular system is located within the inner ear. It sends signals to the nerves and muscles to coordinate eye movement and muscle position. This system is responsible for allowing a person to process spatial orientation and coordinate balance.
Vestibular disorders may be caused by the movement of crystals within the inner ear, injury to the nerves within the vestibular system, or a disruption of fluid balance within the inner ear.
Symptoms of Vertigo
Our Kirkland attorneys understand that the actual symptoms of vertigo are much more severe than a normal dizzy spell. Individuals suffering from vertigo will probably feel like they are tumbling or spinning, even when they are sitting completely still.
Any movement can further exaggerate this sensation and make it feel as though the ground is rolling beneath a person’s feet. Vertigo significantly impacts a person’s ability to complete basic functions and can cause additional symptoms such as nausea, headaches, or vomiting.
Can Vertigo Be Treated?
There are treatments that can address the underlying causes of vertigo and minimize or eliminate symptoms. The treatment technique that works best for each patient will vary. Often, someone suffering from vertigo may require several types of therapy, which may include balance retraining, rehabilitation exercises, and medication.
Damages
Vertigo treatment can be timely and costly, and is likely to require that a person take a significant amount of time off of work. In some cases, a person may be unable to return to their previous line of work.
In addition to financial losses, there are the non-monetary damages to consider. Vertigo is an uncomfortable condition that causes physical and emotional discomfort. Our attorneys consider all of these damages when seeking compensation for our Kirkland clients.
Contact Our Practice
If you are suffering from a traumatic brain injury resulting in vertigo, you may be due financial compensation for injury damages. To learn more about your legal options, contact us at your earliest convenience, or call (425) 576-8150 to schedule a personal consultation with one of our attorneys at Quick Law Group, PLLC.