If you have experienced a minor knock on the head at any point, then you probably remember how painful that was. You may have worried about bruising, bleeding, or even a concussion. Most likely, the result was a headache that resolved itself in a reasonable amount of time—and if not, then you probably had to seek medical attention. The skull can withstand enormous force, but the inner portion of the cranium is more vulnerable to pressure and damage from head injuries. If you or a loved one have sustained a major concussion or traumatic brain injury, the symptoms can range from mild amnesia and vomiting to extreme confusion, lack of coordination, depression, mood swings, and even coma.

Other Complications May Accompany Head Injuries

Medical treatment should be sought immediately in the case of serious head trauma. Not only should the head injury be assessed, but there may be accompanying complications or injuries to other parts of the body. Recently, a study performed by researchers at the Brown University School of Engineering focused on what happens to brain cells upon impact. The team was in the news regarding their findings as they followed damaged cells through the first 24 hours following trauma. They believe that their research may help medical professionals find better ways to treat concussions and traumatic brain injuries in the future.

Damage is Caused to Cells Within Six Hours After Trauma

One of the most stunning realizations from the study, ‘Strain and rate-dependent neuronal injury in a 3D in vitro compression model of traumatic brain injury,’ is that serious damage can be done in the first six hours after injury to the brain.

"I think what was striking to us was within the first four to five hours, you see no difference at all. The cells look healthy, and you think everything is OK," Christian Franck, Brown University researcher and co-author of the paper, told CNN.

"Then, about by five to six hours, you see that the structure is changing, and then it starts to change rapidly and degenerate, and it's dead within a few hours. That was certainly surprising to us," he added. "It gives us a starting point to understand how much time we have to therapeutically intervene."

Immediate Medical Help Can Make a Great Difference

Futuristic new treatments may become available soon, such as a specialized inhaler for cooling down brain tissue, but this study shows just how important it is to seek medical attention quickly if you have sustained a head injury. Slip and fall accidents, car and motorcycle wrecks, injuries during playing sports, and violent assaults are the most common reasons for serious head injuries.

Call Us for Help If You Have Been Injured!

If you have been affected by a head injury due to the negligence of others and are seeking a skilled traumatic brain injury lawyer, contact Heintz Law today. Our attorneys have helped victims from Bradenton, Sarasota, and all over Florida get compensation for their damages and medical expenses. Call us for a free consultation now at 941-748-2916 or contact us online. We are here to help, and if you cannot come to us, we will come to you.