“Brain damage” is a scary term. When your child is diagnosed with brain damage, it’s upsetting and overwhelming and you may feel like you’re at a loss as to what to do. To start, ask your doctor these important questions.
1. What care does my child need right now?
Some types of brain damage are not treatable. Others require immediate surgical intervention to repair the source of the damage and make sure it doesn’t get worse. Make sure you know what your child needs and what procedures are being done.
2. What do I need to do to prepare my home?
Children with brain damage may need special monitoring or health equipment, especially after surgery. Ask your doctor about what your child may need and where to get it.
3. How can I help my child?
Your child may benefit from at-home physical therapy and certain types of games and stimulation. Ask your doctor what is best for your child’s development.
Going forward, your child may benefit from physical and occupational therapy to maintain physical health and learn to perform everyday tasks.
4. What disabilities will my child have?
It may not be possible to answer this question right away, but keep in touch with your doctors about your little one’s progress and about what disabilities to expect. Your child may have delayed mental and physical development. Many children only suffer minor damage and won’t have serious long-term consequences. Others will have more serious disabilities and may not be able to walk or speak.
Children with brain damage may also suffer from secondary issues such as epilepsy. Ask your doctor what signs you should be watching out for and what care may be necessary.
5. Will my child be able to live independently?
Depending on the severity of the injury, your child may need lifelong support. It’s important to plan for that as soon as possible to ensure that your child is taken care of in the long run.
6. What caused my child’s brain damage?
It won’t always be possible to point to a particular cause, but it’s important to ask your doctor in case a cause can be found. If your child suffers from a genetic mutation or congenital condition, other children you plan to have may be at risk and there may be steps you can take to mitigate that risk. If your child’s injuries were the result of a medical mistake, you may want to sue the relevant medical care provider for the costs caused by the injury.
Don’t Be Afraid To Ask Questions
Your child’s health is on the line, so you should ask all the questions you have and make sure you understand the answers. You need this information in order to properly care for your little one and your doctors will be happy to help.