Head injuries and the after effects of a head injury can be devastating for a veteran. Soldiers are far more likely to experience a head injury than any other class of individuals. The most common reason for a Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) is from an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) or from a fall. Combat veterans are far more susceptible to having a head injury than any other soldier.
The Department of Veteran’s Affairs uses the term Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) to define the situation when a soldier has experienced a blow or trauma to the head that disrupts the normal function of the brain.
The VA rates the TBI at that time of the injury. Clinically there are two types of TBIs: mild and severe.
A mild TBI occurs when a soldier loses consciousness for less than 30 minutes. The classic example is a concussion. Even a TBI that is considered to be mild can cause an individual to have loss of cognitive functioning such as memory issues, and issues with concentration and attention. It can cause emotional changes such as mood swings, irritability, and depression. It can also cause physical issues such as headaches, dizziness, or seizures.
A severe TBI occurs when a soldier loses consciousness for more than 30 minutes. Severe TBIs can cause significant cognitive limitations and may even result in abnormal speech and a significant loss in memory, concentration and attention. It may result in a soldier having severe emotional problems. It also may result in a soldier having significant physical problems such as trouble with the use of arms or legs or seizures.
As of January 16, 2014, the VA has recognized certain conditions to be secondary to a TBI that occurred while in service. The following list includes conditions that are presumed to be secondary to a service-connected TBI:
- Parkinson’s disease;
- Seizures that are not brought on by anything that is known;
- Dementias that occurs within 15 years after a TBI;
- Depression that occurs either within 3 years after a moderate or severe TBI; or within 12 months of mild TBI; or
- Diseases resulting from hypothalamo-pituitary changes occurring within 12 months of a TBI.
At Anderson Hunter Law Firm, we are experienced in handling cases involving veterans with a TBI. We understand how a head injury can cause more than just temporary loss of consciousness. If you are a veteran and believe you suffer from a TBI, call our office today for a free, in-person and confidential consultation with a ‘VA Accredited’ attorney to determine whether you are entitled to compensation through the VA.
More Information
If you served our country and suffer from TBI as a result, you should know that you are entitled to some compensation. For an understanding of the amount of compensation you may be entitled to, see this link.
If you need help, contact the VA and or a Vet Center. You can find a list of locations at www.va.gov and www.vetcenter.va.gov.