How Are Traumatic Brain Injuries Diagnosed?

Life may never be the same after a traumatic brain injury (TBI). Because TBIs involve the brain, they often have long, complicated roads to recovery. Additionally, it can be difficult for doctors to provide patients with an accurate picture of what their road to recovery may look like. Learn how doctors diagnose TBIs and how, even after a diagnosis, patients’ recoveries may differ drastically.

3 Ways to Diagnose a Traumatic Brain Injury

There are several different ways to diagnose a TBI. Doctors often use a combination of all of the following:

• Basic neurological exam. During a neurological exam, doctors will examine patients’ thinking, motor function, sensory function, coordination, and reflexes.
• Imaging tests. Doctors may use a CT scan or an MRI to visualize fractures, uncover evidence of bleeding in the brain, create a detailed view of the brain.
• Neurocognitive tests. Medical providers may perform neuropsychological or neurocognitive tests to help assess a patient’s learning and memory skills, ability to pay attention or concentrate, and speed at thinking and solving problems.

Once you or someone you love has been diagnosed with a TBI, it’s important to remember that nothing about the prognosis is set in stone. The human brain is complex, and every patient responds to treatment differently. For instance, some severe TBI victims make significant strides in their recovery, while some mild TBI victims experience debilitating symptoms for the rest of their lives. It all depends on several factors, including:

• Access to high-quality medical treatment
• A strong support system of family and friends
• A strong internal desire and motivation to get better

If you or someone you love suffered a TBI, our Los Angeles trial attorneys can help you recover the compensation you need for high-quality medical care. This is a vital component of the recovery process.

Call Greene Broillet & Wheeler, LLP at (866) 634-4525 to schedule a free consultation.