Getting proper treatment for a head injury is essential to a person’s ability to recover, but it is often hindered by the fact that the level of injury is not properly established. If someone has suffered a head injury, there may be few physical signs of problems, but that does not mean that there is not damage to the person’s cognitive abilities. Further, signs of trouble may develop over time rather than being immediately obvious.

While there are many cases where swelling of the brain or bleeding are obvious indications of a brain trauma, other indications may include memory loss, mild depression and changes in emotional state or behavior. Since these are not as easily quantifiable, they may be dismissed as being due to depression or even just a bad mood.

For most people, recovery from a head injury only takes about three weeks. However, for others, it can take much longer. The type of care that people are given following an injury can have a significant effect on their recovery time and their prognosis. Therefore, someone with a head injury should be checked out by a doctor, and any signs of physical or mental problems should be taken seriously.

It is important that a head injury is taken seriously. Even if someone seems like they are fine, the symptoms may be subtle, and they are not always physical. People who have suffered brain traumas may need extensive and costly medical attention. In the event that the injury was caused by the negligence of another party, a lawyer may be able to assist a victim in seeking compensation for medical expenses, lost wages and other applicable amounts.