Seeking Justice For The Injured

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Can a traumatic brain injury lead to a learning disability?

On Behalf of | Nov 5, 2022 | Brain Injuries |

Many Florida residents sustain traumatic brain injuries in accidents. Children, in particular, are susceptible to developing learning disabilities when they experience head injuries. This is how such an injury can affect learning when the brain is still growing and developing.

How brain injuries occur in children

Although children are resilient, they can develop a traumatic brain injury (TBI) from falls, car crashes, and sports activities. A TBI can range from mild to severe in the form of a concussion or much worse injury that results in permanent brain damage. When a child sustains such an injury, it could be devastating for their developing brain.

Parents should be aware of certain symptoms in their children that signify they might have suffered a TBI. It might take hours or even days for signs to appear, but a major indication of a TBI is loss of consciousness. Other symptoms include confusion, speech problems, dizziness, memory problems, delayed responses, nausea and vomiting. In severe cases, a child might experience seizures or coma.

Learning disabilities after a TBI and help

A child can develop a learning disability after suffering a TBI. Depending on the area of the brain affected, their cognitive ability, memory, problem-solving, communication and attention could be impacted. A child who once had their full faculties could experience difficulties in these areas and more.

If a child has suffered a TBI, the first year after diagnosis is crucial for their prognosis, especially if they’ve developed a learning disability. This situation requires special education programs such as an Individualized Education Program, which involves one-on-one instruction to prepare the child for their transition back to class. At home, parents can help their children with smartphone apps and flashcards that help with memory issues.

TBIs leading to learning disabilities present challenges, but there are measures to help children cope and succeed.