Brain Injuries

According to the Center for Disease Control, each year 1.4 million Americans have a brain injury of some sort. Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) are the result of a blow to the head or a penetrating injury to the head. Varying degrees of severity result in patients with only a brief period of disorientation to patients in a vegetative state. There is no cure for TBIs, only rehabilitation and palliative care.

The signs and symptoms of a brain injury are often difficult to diagnose. Some of the symptoms are so subtle, they may go completely unnoticed. That being said, there are several standard signs and symptoms to look for if a brain injury is suspected. They are:

* Memory problems

* Persistent neck pain and/or headaches

* Confusion

* Acting, speaking or reading slowly

* Notable change in sleeping patterns

* Loss of balance or lightheadedness

* Mood changes

* Malaise

* Nausea

* Sensitivity to sound or light

* Tired or blurry eyes

* Loss of the ability to taste or smell

* Ear ringing

These symptoms may be a sign of a traumatic brain injury and medial assistance should be sought.

There is no cure for TBI. A mild brain injury such as a concussion is treated by time. Most concussions clear up in a relatively short period time. However, a person suffering from a concussion should avoid driving or using heavy equipment, anything that could cause another blow to the head and be carefully monitored during sleep. In the case of a TBI resulting in a vegetative state the only treatment is palliative. Intravenous fluids, assistance breathing and pain management are offered to comatose patients. A patient recovering from a severe traumatic brain injury may need assistance recovering. Relearning forgotten skills is aided by special therapist trained in TBI recovery. A recovering patient may have difficulty speaking, walking and taking care of themselves. Occupational therapy may help them regain these abilities.

Traumatic brain injuries are caused by blows to the head. A range of outcomes is seen depending on the severity of the injury. Subtle symptoms make TBIs difficult to diagnose. If a diagnosis of TBI is made, treatment will vary depending on the severity of the injury. Preventative measures such as wearing a seat belt while in moving vehicles, wearing helmets while riding bicycles or motorcycles and wearing appropriate protective gear at work and at play will lessen the risk and severity of traumatic brain injuries. Traumatic brain injuries affect millions of people each year and there is no cure.

www.cdc.gov