When the brain doesn't receive enough oxygen to function, brain cells begin to die. After only five minutes without sufficient oxygen, permanent brain injury can occur. This is referred to as Anoxic Brain Injury, or also Cerebral Hypoxia or Hypoxic-Anoxic Injury (HAI).

The greater the deprivation of oxygen to the brain, the greater the damage caused.

The four types of Anoxic Brain Injury are:

1. Anemic anoxia - caused by blood that cannot carry enough oxygen to the brain. This can be a result of some types of lung disease, chronic anemia, acute hemorrhage and carbon monoxide poisoning. It typically leads to a slow deterioration of the injured person's condition, as there may be some oxygen flowing to the brain but not enough to sustain its vital functions.
2. Toxic anoxia - caused by toxins in the body that disrupts the system's ability to properly use the oxygen. This could also be caused by carbon monoxide, misuse of drugs or other forms of poisonous substances.
3. Stagnant anoxia - also called hypoxicischemic injury (HII). This occurs when an internal condition disrupts the flow of oxygen-rich blood to the brain. Strokes, cardiac arrhythmia, and cardiac arrest can cause this type of Anoxic Brain Injury.
4. Anoxic anoxia - caused by conditions in the environment where there is not enough oxygen in the air for the body to use. It can occur at high altitudes or other circumstances where oxygen is limited.

If you or a loved one has had a brain injury caused by another party’s negligent, careless, or intentional acts, that person or company should be held accountable. The brain injury attorneys at Kershaw, Cutter & Ratinoff have the experience and resources needed to evaluate and handle your case. Fill out and submit the contact form on this page for a free and confidential case evaluation or call us toll-free at (888) 285-3333.