Anoxic Brain Injury : Anoxic Brain Damage

What is anoxic brain injury?

Anoxic brain injury usually results in a serious condition of brain damage. Anoxic brain injury refers to the total lack of oxygen to the brain. It is also called cerebral hypoxia or hypoxic-anoxic injury (HAI). Anoxic brain injury occurs when the brain is deprived of oxygen for several minutes. The brain cannot function properly without oxygen. Consequently, when deprived of oxygen for more than a few minutes, brain cells die.

What causes anoxic brain injury?

The total deprivation of oxygen can occur for several reasons. Causes include the following: the exposure to poisons or toxins, which will prevent the brain from effectively using the oxygen in the blood; an inadequate supply of oxygen in the blood; or a circumstance where oxygenated blood is unable to reach the brain due to an occurrence like a stroke or a heart attack.

What are the symptoms of anoxic brain injury?

Anoxic brain injury can result in serious brain damage. The degree of the injury will determine the type of treatment necessary and the extent of recovery. Severe cases of anoxic brain injury often result in the victim falling into a coma or a vegetative state. A mild or moderate condition may result in the inability to move freely, headaches, coordination problems, and the inability to concentrate.

What kind of medical treatment is available for anoxic brain damage?

A person suffering from anoxic brain injury will require medical treatment in order to improve their condition. Treatment for anoxic brain injury is expensive. Every situation is different so the duration of the treatment will depend on the severity of the brain injury. Treatment may proceed for months or even years. Nevertheless, a full recovery may be impossible in some situations. Typically, treatment will include speech, occupational, and physical therapy.

What kind of legal help is available for anoxic brain injury?

Because anoxic brain injury requires medical treatment, the monetary cost of treating one’s injury can easily become insurmountable, especially if it is severe. A severe brain injury may lead to long-term medical treatment. When anoxic brain injury is the result of someone else’s actions, a legal claim to recover compensation for one’s injury may be available. For instance, when a person engages in reckless behavior and it causes another person to endure a personal injury, the injured person may file a negligence claim against the individual or company responsible.

An attorney that specializes in brain injury cases can help a victim recover damages for their brain injury. Possible recovery includes compensation for medical care, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If a loved one died from anoxic brain injury, family members may recover compensation for the wrongful death of their family member. Compensation may include a damage award for the loss of advice, guidance, and companionship.

If you would like to learn about whether you have an anoxic brain injury case or if you have questions regarding your legal rights, please contact us.