A coup-contrecoup brain injury occurs when a head injury results in damage to 2 sides of the brain. The two sides include the side of the trauma and the opposite side of the brain. Because they affect multiple areas of the brain, coup-contrecoup injuries can result in various secondary complications and are one of the most severe types of traumatic brain injury.
Signs and symptoms of a coup-contrecoup injury may include:
- Bleeding on the brain
- Concussion
- Skull fracture
- Loss of consciousness
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Nausea and vomiting
- Seizures
- Changes in mood or behavior
- Difficulty speaking or understanding speech
- Paralysis and coma.
If you experience any of these symptoms after a head injury, seeking medical attention is essential, as a coup-contrecoup injury can be life-threatening.
How can a coup-contrecoup injury occur?
A contusion is a type of brain injury that occurs when the head is suddenly and violently jarred. The impact causes bruising of the brain tissue and can lead to bleeding and swelling. Contusions can vary from minor concussions to more serious traumatic brain injuries. Most contusions occur in the front or back of the brain, but they can also appear on the side of the head.
Car accidents fall, and sports-related injuries are among the most common causes of contusions. However, any blunt-force trauma to the head can result in a contusion. In some cases, a contusion may be accompanied by a skull fracture. Sadly in some cases, a shaken baby or caretaker neglect of an infant can even result in this type of injury.
If you have suffered a head injury, it is essential to seek medical attention immediately. A CT scan or MRI can help to diagnose a contusion and determine the best course of treatment.
What are the recovery goals of a coup-contrecoup brain injury?
Recovery from a coup-contrecoup brain injury can be a long and arduous process. Depending on the severity of the injury, patients may require months or even years of rehabilitation. The goals of rehabilitation are two-fold. The first goal is to help the patient regain as much function as possible. The second goal is to learn how to cope with any residual effects of the injury. Many patients can recover well with extensive rehabilitation and support from family and friends. However, some patients may never fully recover from their injuries and may require lifelong assistance.
If you or someone you love has suffered a coup-contrecoup brain injury, it is essential to seek medical attention immediately and to be prepared for a long road to recovery. However, with proper treatment and support, many patients can lead fulfilling lives even with their devastating injuries.
Contact our brain injury lawyers to discuss your case.
Have you or a loved one suffered a severe head injury? Snyder and Wenner is a law firm that specializes in brain injuries. We have over 40 years of experience holding hospitals, doctors, and nurses accountable for failing to diagnose and treat severe head injuries properly.
If you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence, contact us today for a free consultation with one of our experienced brain injury attorneys. We will fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact Snyder & Wenner today for a free consultation with a brain injury lawyer in Phoenix, Tucson, Avondale & Scottsdale,AZ.