What are Hypoxic Brain Injuries?

Without a constant, adequate flow of oxygen, the human brain cannot function and will ultimately die. In as few as four minutes without oxygen, brain cells will begin to die and permanent damage can occur. The longer a person’s brain goes without oxygen, the higher the possibility becomes of permanent injury and brain death.

Causes of Hypoxic Brain Injuries

Oxygen deprivation can be caused by a number of different situations. Common causes of hypoxic brain injuries include:

  • Strokes
  • Heart Attacks
  • Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
  • Electrocution
  • Drowning
  • Strangulation
  • Choking

Identifying and treating the underlying cause of the injury is absolutely necessary if oxygen is going to be restored to the brain (which is the only chance the victim has to recover).

Recovering from Hypoxic Brain Injuries

Individuals who have experienced hypoxic brain injuries often suffer from long-lasting effects, including emotional, physical and cognitive difficulties. Once the person regains consciousness, gauging long-term recovery and abilities can be extremely difficult. For their family members, these changes can be jarring and devastating. Individuals who have suffered hypoxic brain injuries may no longer be able to care for themselves and may require assistance with basic tasks, including:

  • Personal care and hygiene
  • Preparing and eating meals
  • Moving around the home

Some individuals who have suffered hypoxic brain injuries may remain dependent on round-the-clock care, while others may regain some measure of independence. Still, others may recover extensively and may return to many of the activities they enjoyed prior to the injury. Each situation is different and following their doctor’s advice is the best way to assist your loved one with their recovery.

Pursuing a Case for Hypoxic Brain Injuries

In order to establish a case for hypoxic brain injury, one must tie the injury to an action, or failure to act, on the part of another person that would have prevented the devastating event. The experienced attorneys at The Ernst Law Group can help you investigate the original cause of the hypoxic brain injury and can help you determine if there is a case to pursue.

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