The human brain is an intricate and delicate organ. The brain regulates all body processes and allows an individual to think, reason and communicate. When a portion of the brain sustains an injury, an impacted individual may be rendered unable to walk or talk or may seem like a completely different person.

Doctors continue to be mystified by how the brain works and why some people seem to bounce back relatively unscathed from a brain injury while others remain severely disabled. What is clear is that a blow sustained to the head and brain can be a devastating and potentially fatal injury.

A tragic incident in which a soccer referee died from a brain injury recently made national headlines. A 17-year-old male suspect is currently in police custody awaiting criminal charges in the 46-year-old referee’s death. The brain injury stemmed from an argument that ensued related to a call the referee made during a soccer game. The 17-year-old became upset over the call and ended up punching the referee squarely in the face.

Reeling from the blow, the 46-year-old remained conscious but complained of feeling dizzy and nauseous. The situation took a turn for the worse when he began vomiting blood and he was rushed to the hospital. After being admitted, the 46-year-old’s brain continued to swell and he slipped into a coma. He died a week later as a result for the traumatic brain injury and subsequent brain swelling and damage.

This incredibly sad and tragic incident proves how even one blow to the head can result in a severe and potentially fatal brain injury. By the time such an injury has occurred, doctors are in a race against time to control the swelling in the brain that can cause irreversible brain damage and even lead to death.

Individuals who have sustained a brain injury as a result of the negligent actions of another, whether it be in a car accident or a medical procedure, may want to consult with an attorney. In such cases, a lawsuit may help an injured individual recover compensation related to their injuries and medical expenses and needs.

Source: CBS News, “Soccer referee’s death shows how dangerous head blows can be,” Ryan Jaslow, May 6, 2013