The long-term symptoms of head trauma

Traumatic Brain Injury - December 13, 2024 by Horwitz, Horwitz & Associates

Head trauma can change your life in an instant, leaving lasting effects that go far beyond the initial injury. From persistent headaches and memory loss to emotional struggles and difficulty returning to work, the long-term symptoms of head trauma can disrupt every aspect of your life. Understanding these symptoms is essential for your recovery and critical if you’re seeking legal compensation for an injury caused by someone else’s negligence.

At Horwitz, Horwitz & Associates, our Chicago brain injury lawyers have seen firsthand how head trauma impacts individuals and families. This guide explores the long-term symptoms of head trauma, the legal options available to victims, and how we can help you secure the justice and compensation you deserve.

head trauma long term symptoms

What is head trauma?

Head trauma refers to any injury to the skull, brain, or scalp, ranging from mild concussions to severe traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). These injuries can occur due to falls, vehicle collisions, sports accidents, or workplace incidents. While some head injuries resolve with proper treatment, others lead to lasting complications.

Head trauma long-term symptoms

The long-term symptoms of head trauma vary depending on the severity and location of the injury. They generally fall into three categories: physical, cognitive, and emotional.

Physical symptoms

Head trauma can leave individuals with lasting physical impairments, including:

  • Chronic headaches: Persistent headaches or migraines are common, particularly after concussions or TBIs.
  • Seizures: Some individuals develop post-traumatic epilepsy, even years after the initial injury.
  • Vertigo or dizziness: Damage to the brain or inner ear can result in ongoing balance issues.
  • Fatigue: Many head trauma victims experience overwhelming fatigue that doesn’t improve with rest.
  • Vision or hearing problems: Blurred vision, tinnitus, or hearing loss may develop due to nerve damage or brain injury.
  • Motor skill impairments: Severe head trauma can cause difficulty with coordination, muscle weakness, or even partial paralysis.

Cognitive symptoms

Head trauma often impacts a person’s ability to think, remember, and process information. Long-term cognitive symptoms include:

  • Memory problems: Short-term and long-term memory loss can interfere with daily activities.
  • Difficulty concentrating: Many individuals struggle to focus or complete complex tasks.
  • Slower processing speed: Cognitive delays can make it harder to keep up with conversations or work responsibilities.
  • Speech and language difficulties: Some victims experience trouble speaking, understanding language, or finding the right words.
  • Executive functioning challenges: These include difficulty planning, organizing, or making decisions.

Emotional and psychological symptoms

The emotional toll of head trauma can be just as debilitating as physical symptoms. Common emotional effects include:

  • Mood swings: Unpredictable shifts in mood, from anger to sadness, are common.
  • Depression and anxiety: Many victims develop mental health conditions due to changes in brain function and the challenges of adjusting to their injury.
  • Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD): Especially after accidents, some individuals experience flashbacks, nightmares, or severe anxiety.
  • Lack of emotional regulation: Head trauma can impair the ability to manage emotions, leading to frustration or inappropriate behavior.
  • Social withdrawal: Difficulty communicating or connecting with others may lead to isolation.

Legal considerations for head trauma victims in Illinois

If your head trauma resulted from someone else’s negligence—such as a car accident, workplace injury, or slip-and-fall—you may be entitled to compensation. Illinois law allows victims to pursue damages for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other losses.

Statute of limitations

In Illinois, personal injury claims must generally be filed within two years of the injury date (735 ILCS 5/13-202). For injuries caused by medical malpractice, the statute of limitations is also two years, but exceptions may apply.

Comparative negligence

Illinois follows a modified comparative negligence rule (735 ILCS 5/2-1116). If you are partially at fault for the accident that caused your head trauma, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. However, you cannot recover damages if you are more than 50% responsible.

Workers’ compensation

If your head trauma occurred at work, you may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. These benefits cover medical expenses and a portion of lost wages but do not compensate for pain and suffering.

Steps to take after head trauma

If you suspect long-term symptoms of head trauma, taking the following steps can protect your health and legal rights:

  1. Seek immediate medical attention: Prompt diagnosis and treatment are critical to managing symptoms and preventing further complications.
  2. Document your injuries: Keep detailed records of your medical treatments, symptoms, and how the injury has affected your daily life.
  3. Consult an attorney: A skilled personal injury attorney can help determine whether negligence played a role in your injury and guide you through the legal process.

How Horwitz, Horwitz & Associates can help

At Horwitz, Horwitz & Associates, we have a proven track record of advocating for victims of head trauma and other serious injuries. Our team works tirelessly to:

  • Investigate the cause of your injury and identify liable parties.
  • Gather evidence to support your claim, including medical records and expert testimony.
  • Calculate the full extent of your damages, from medical expenses to emotional suffering.
  • Negotiate with insurance companies to secure maximum compensation or take your case to trial if necessary.

Have you suffered head trauma? We’re here to help.

The long-term symptoms of head trauma can significantly impact every aspect of your life, from your health to your career and relationships. If someone else’s negligence caused your injury, you don’t have to face the challenges alone. At Horwitz, Horwitz & Associates, we are committed to helping you seek justice and the compensation you deserve.

Contact us online or call (800) 985-1819 to schedule a free consultation. Let us help you navigate the legal process and focus on your recovery.