Looking for Signs of a Serious Head Injury
Damage to the brain is the primary concern when someone sustains a head injury. Roughly 2.5 million people sustain traumatic brain injuries each year, which “contribute to a substantial number of deaths and cases of permanent disability,” report the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
If a worker is in an offshore accident and suffered a blow to the head, it’s important to be very watchful for signs of brain injury. Some of the signs of head trauma to look for include:
- headache;
- vomiting;
- seizures;
- problems with cognition or memory;
- problems speaking, i.e., slurred speech;
- dizziness;
- unconsciousness;
- inability to focus the eyes or dilated pupils;
- bleeding on the head or out of the nose, ears or eyes; or
- difficulty moving the arms or legs.
Should you notice any of these signs of a head injury, arrange for medical attention immediately.
Getting Medical Attention
Swelling and internal bleeding are the primary threats to a victim’s health when he or she suffered a head injury. Reducing the swelling and stabilizing the patient are the focuses of the initial treatments for brain injuries. Without immediate medical attention, brain injuries quickly worsen; untreated head injuries can result in long-term disability and death.
Unfortunately, many workers injured in offshore accidents fail to report the accident right away because they aren’t sure if they need care. The confusion and memory issues that occur with a head injury further exacerbate matters and may lead workers to delay seeking treatment.
Dr. Benjamin Wedro on MedicineNet.com explains a general rule of thumb for knowing when to seek medical treatment after a head injury: “A guiding principle might be, regardless of age, if the injured patient isn’t acting like themselves, then medical care is needed. And all bets are off if alcohol or other drugs are involved; medical care should be sought immediately.”
What to Do After an Offshore Maritime Accident
If someone is injured aboard a vessel offshore – be it the result of a slip and fall, a piece of equipment dropping and striking the head, or any type of accident – report the injury immediately and seek medical attention. Without medical care, the injury can become much more serious.
Then shortly afterwards, the victim or victim’s family should fill out the proper paperwork for obtaining injury benefits like maintenance and cure. It’s also advisable to discuss the case with an offshore injury attorney because there may be additional opportunities for restitution.
Discuss Legal Options with a Maritime Attorney
If you or a family member suffered a head injury in an offshore accident, you can seek counsel from a legal professional by contacting our maritime attorneys at The Young Firm. We handle all types of cases for injured workers and are dedicated to helping victims and their families recover the benefits and settlement they need after a serious accident.
Call us today for a free, no-obligation consultation – 866-715-3664.
