When you were a child growing up in New York, your parents may have insisted you wear a safety helmet when you rode your bike or skateboard. It may have seemed uncomfortable or uncool, but if you ever took a spill, you may have appreciated the protection.
If you wear a helmet on the job or on your motorcycle, you certainly understand the added measure of safety it provides. However, in some cases, even a helmet cannot protect you from injury. Whether you are in a car accident or an accident at work, an injury to the frontal lobe of your brain can be devastating and result in life-long struggles for you and your family.
Common behavioral changes
The frontal lobe of the brain sits directly behind your forehead and extends to the top third of your head. Although the brain is a complex organ that doctors are only beginning to understand, researchers say the frontal lobe controls some of the most complex and delicate functions in human life.
A blow to the frontal cortex, such as when your head strikes the dashboard or a heavy object falls from above, can result in changes in your behavior and personality, for example:
- You may become dangerously impulsive.
- You may be unable to control inappropriate comments, especially those of a sexual nature.
- You may quickly express impatience or intolerance with others.
- You may be unable to interpret social cues or to respond with appropriate facial expressions.
- Your ability to think critically and solve problems may be compromising.
- You may become depressed, be unable to sleep or have difficulty processing language.
It is not unusual for victims of frontal lobe brain injuries to turn to drugs or alcohol since this area of the brain controls impulses and behavior. After you suffer this type of injury, it is possible that your loved ones may be unable to recognize the person you once were.
The aftermath of a brain injury
A frontal lobe injury may make it impossible for you to return to your old job. You may require surgical intervention immediately after the injury and ongoing therapy in the years to come.
Therapists may need to reteach basic skills and assist you in learning methods of dealing with the deficiencies you may experience. This can be a long and expensive process, and you will want to be certain your financial situation does not prevent you from accessing the resources you need. Taking steps to maximize the recovery of any compensation can be a critical part of your healing process.
