5 Common Myths About Brain Injury Claims Debunked

You’d think with all the info online, people would know more about brain injuries by now, but no. The internet is packed with outdated claims and straight-up wrong ideas about how traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) work, how they show up in tests, and how recovery looks. 

If you suspect a brain injury, skilled brain injury attorneys from Finz & Finz, P.C. can help you understand the full scope of your injury and its long-term effects, especially when the visible signs don’t match the severity of your symptoms. 

Now, let’s debunk five of the major myths associated with brain injury claims:

Myth 1: You can always see a brain injury on CT and MRI scans

One of the biggest misconceptions about brain injuries is that you can always see them on CT or MRI scans. People think that if an imaging test doesn’t show any obvious brain damage, like a brain bleed or skull fracture, then the injury must not be serious. 

But that’s simply not the case. CT and MRI scans are excellent for spotting major issues like bleeding in the brain, but they aren’t designed to detect all types of brain injuries, especially concussions or mild traumatic brain injuries (TBI).

Many brain injuries, particularly concussions, don’t show up on these tests. A clear scan doesn’t mean you’re in the clear. In fact, people often feel fine after an injury but may still suffer from long-term effects like memory issues, headaches, or changes in mood. This is why it’s crucial to see a doctor, even if your scans come back clear. 

Myth 2: Two years after a brain injury, no further recovery can be made

Another widespread myth is that if you don’t fully recover from a brain injury within the first couple of years, then you’re stuck with the damage for life. This couldn’t be further from the truth. 

Yes, the first few months after a brain injury are critical, but recovery doesn’t have an expiration date. Research has shown that recovery can continue even decades after the injury.

You can improve years after the injury as long as you continue to seek appropriate treatment. 

Myth 3: Concussions are not serious

Concussions are often downplayed as a minor injury. However, concussions are a type of mild traumatic brain injury (TBI), and they can have serious consequences. The idea that concussions are no big deal is dangerous, as it can lead to people ignoring symptoms or not seeking proper treatment.

While many people recover from a concussion in a few weeks, others may experience long-term symptoms, such as headaches, memory problems, and mood swings. In some cases, concussions can lead to permanent changes in a person’s cognitive and emotional state. 

Myth 4: Individuals with brain injury don’t think about suicide

Suicide is a heartbreaking and serious risk for individuals who have sustained a traumatic brain injury. In fact, research shows that nearly one in five brain injury survivors experience suicidal thoughts, plans, or attempts in the five years following their injury. This is much higher than the general population, where the risk is about one in 25.

The combination of severe life changes and the biological effects of brain injury can contribute to depression and suicidal thoughts. 

Myth 5: Only athletes get concussions

It’s easy to think that concussions are just something athletes have to worry about, but this myth couldn’t be more wrong. Concussions and other types of traumatic brain injuries (TBI) can happen to anyone, at any time, and in any situation. 

Sure, athletes are at higher risk because of contact sports, but TBI is also a major concern in car accidents, falls, workplace accidents, and even in everyday activities like biking or rollerblading.

Brain injuries can affect anyone, and it’s important to take them seriously, no matter how they happen.