Memory loss is quite common after a head injury. One study shows a 50% increased risk of dementia after a head injury resulting in loss of consciousness.
Memory loss may mean short-term difficulty recalling information and events or can be long-term impairment.
Here is what Horton & Mendez Injury Attorneys want you to know about memory loss after a head injury.
Understanding Memory Loss
Memory is the ability to recall things we have learned. It allows us to remember whether we have to work today or what we need from the store. Memory allows us to maintain relationships with family and friends.
Parts of the brain that perform memory functions are:
- Hippocampus—Stores, organizes, and strengthens memory in the brain
- Prefrontal cortex—Guides behavior, personality, and function
- Cerebellum—Controls motor function, responsible for procedural and motor memory
- Basal ganglia—Informs muscle movements and emotions
- Neocortex—Stores facts long-term
- Striatum—Helps retrieve stored memory
- Amygdala—Attaches emotion to memory, making memories stronger
- Sensory cortex—Processes information, including noting adverse experiences
- Parietal lobe—Remembers events and episodes
There are three parts to memory loss—information encoded in the brain, storage of information, and recall. Sometimes, memory is automatic—things we do without thinking much about them or even unconsciously. Other times, memory takes a lot of active effort.
Memory Loss and Head Injuries
When the brain sustains damage, a person may experience memory loss.
A head injury is acute trauma to the brain. Shaking or penetrating injury can destroy cells and disrupt typical brain function. One of the things that can be affected is memory. Different types of memory loss may occur.
Types of Memory Loss Caused by Head Injuries
Amnesia
Post-traumatic amnesia is the inability to recall facts, information, and people after a traumatic event. Before the injury, facts and circumstances may have been familiar. However, a person may not remember their name, close family and friends, or even basic facts like what year it is or who is President.
Amnesia can be retrograde, which is a loss of events right before injury occurs. Usually, recollection improves over time.
Anterograde amnesia prevents a person from making new memories in the future. Duration and severity may vary.
Cognitive impairment, forgetfulness
A person who suffers memory loss after a head injury may experience cognitive impairment.
They may not have amnesia, but they struggle to retain and recall information. For example, they may frequently forget when they have appointments. Cognitive impairment may improve after several weeks, or a person may experience long-term symptoms.
Complex PTSD
Psychological injury associated with trauma can cause memory loss. An injured person may have fragmented memories and may have trouble concentrating. Their symptoms may be the result of the brain trying to avoid and suppress unpleasant memories. Attention and concentration may be negatively impacted.
Why Memory Loss is a Common Consequence of Brain Trauma
Memory loss is a common consequence of brain trauma because the trauma injures and impairs brain cells.
Many regions of the brain work together to perform memory functions. Damage to any one of these areas may impair memory. The region of the brain affected, the severity of the injury, and any previous harm may all impact the nature and severity of symptoms.
Short-Term vs. Long-Term Memory Loss After Head Injuries
Memory loss after a head injury may be short-term, long-term, or both. An injury that may not seem severe at first can have lifelong consequences. Even a person with severe memory loss may not have visible injuries.
A head injury may be serious regardless of whether or not it causes short-term or long-term memory loss. A victim may qualify to claim financial compensation that reflects the severity of the injury.
Treatment Options for Memory Loss from Head Injuries
Treating memory loss from a head injury should begin with stabilization to prevent further injury.
A person will then typically receive cognitive therapies to build and improve memory. A person may play memory games and complete puzzles. They may participate in speech therapy and counseling. Medical intervention may help a person address inflammation or sleep disruption to improve overall well-being.
Strategies, including developing routines for where to place important items and using lists and diaries to keep track of things, may help the person cope with daily life. Relaxation and music therapies may promote brain health.
Legal Rights of Victims Experiencing Memory Loss After an Accident
The right to compensation
A person who experiences memory loss after an accident may have the right to monetary compensation. Memory loss is a kind of personal injury, and a person may seek a monetary award through a personal injury claim. There are multiple grounds for a claim, including negligence and recklessness.
A person bringing a claim must prove the right to compensation and must identify the responsible party or parties. They must find sources of compensation. Many claims are settled through insurance policies.
Long-term damages
Brain injuries that cause long-term effects should be valued appropriately. Symptoms that persist may significantly increase the amount of claims. Long-term damages may include therapy and personal care.
It is the responsibility of the victim to identify long-term damages. They must provide medical evidence that links the injury to their symptoms. Usually, a victim will rely on medical experts.
Pain and suffering, emotional injury
Memory loss after a head injury is a physical, mental, and emotional loss. A person with memory loss suffers from confusion, frustration, stress, and worry. They may have emotional agony, knowing that they are living with memory loss. This suffering is worthy of compensation.
In fact, non-economic damages like pain and suffering are often undervalued.
Pursuing your claim
A victim of memory loss after a head injury must take affirmative steps to claim compensation.
They must follow the procedural steps and present compelling evidence. Claims are resolved through settlements and trials.
Contact an Experienced Gastonia Personal Injury Lawyer
Horton & Mendez Injury Attorneys is a team of experienced Gastonia personal injury lawyers. If you or a loved one has suffered memory loss after a head injury, contact us. Memory loss after a head injury is common, and we are ready to help.
