The recent death of actress Natasha Richardson after a seemingly minor ski accident underscores the importance of seeking medical attention immediately if you have received any type of blow to the head. Richardson died from a condition that many neurosurgeons commonly call “talk and die” syndrome.
Richardson fell Monday afternoon while taking a ski lesson. The fall seemed relatively ordinary, not anything to be concerned with. Her behavior after the fall seemed normal as well, so she did not think to get examined by a doctor for the presence of a brain injury. However, she began to develop symptoms indicative of a serious brain injury later that evening. By the time she received medical attention, she had suffered fatal brain damage.
It is very common for brain injury victims to experience a similar progression to Richardson’s, where symptoms do not become apparent until several hours or possibly even several days after the accident. Unfortunately, by the time these symptoms appear, it is often too late to prevent permanent brain damage or potentially even death.
These latent onset brain injuries are caused by an epidural hemorrhage, a condition occurring when blood builds up between the skull and the layer of skin between the bone and the brain, called the dura matter. When a blow to the head ruptures an artery, the resulting hemorrhaging causes a build-up of pressure in the skull. This pressure impacts the brain, causing it to swell, further reducing blood flow to the region.
Over time, symptoms will begin to develop from the injury. The longer the injury persists without medical attention, the more serious the consequences. In Richardson’s case, the damage was done quickly. She received medical attention several hours after the injury, but it was already too late to save her life.
If you have been injured in an auto accident, sports accident, or slip and fall accident, it is important to seek medical attention immediately, even if you feel fine. You may have sustained a serious brain injury that will not become apparent until later. If your injury was caused by the negligent actions of another, you should consult an experienced brain injury lawyer as well. You may be eligible to receive compensation for your damages.
If you have suffered a brain injury in the Orlando, Florida area, please contact the Law Offices of Michael Barszcz, M.D., J.D. today to schedule a consultation.
