Without oxygen, damage will be done to the body. The brain could suffer the most harm if a Delaware resident is denied oxygen for an extended period. Permanent brain injuries can result from a condition called cerebral hypoxia, which in the simplest terms means that the brain is not getting the oxygen it needs.
In as little as five minutes, the lack of oxygen to the brain can cause serious damage. The longer the brain is without oxygen, the worse the problems can be, and death is a possibility. The faster that the appropriate medical care is received, the better the chances are that any harm can be stopped.
If you are knocked out and regain consciousness before anyone has sought medical attention on your behalf, immediate medical attention is advisable. Symptoms of mild cerebral hypoxia include inattentiveness, uncoordinated movements and poor judgment. Other symptoms of cerebral hypoxia that are more serious include not breathing, coma and no dilation of the pupils. As if the accident that led to this condition was not bad enough, not receiving the proper medical care may make the situation worse. If the proper diagnosis and treatment are not received quickly, permanent brain damage or death could result.
If you or a family member suffered from cerebral hypoxia due to the negligence of another, you might be able to seek restitution in a Delaware civil court. A successful personal injury or wrongful death claim in which the evidence supports that the brain injuries were caused or contributed to by someone else’s negligent actions could result in an award of damages. Any restitution received could help defray the financial burdens placed on you and your family.
Source: medlineplus.gov, “Cerebral hypoxia“, Accessed on Oct. 29, 2016