A brain injury is a blow or jolt to the head or a penetrating head injury that disrupts the function of the brain. 2.8 million people are treated for brain injuries in the United States each year. The most common brain injuries happen from a sports injury or a car accident. Symptoms can be immediate or delayed. This can include blurry vision, confusion, and difficulty concentrating. The injuries are classified as traumatic or non-traumatic to describe the cause of the injury. They may also be classified as mild, moderate, or severe to indicate the initial severity of the injury.
• Falls
• Car Accidents
• Sports Injuries
• Abusive Head Trauma
• Workplace Injuries
• Assaults
• Stroke
• Tumors
• Lack of oxygen
• Cancer and other illnesses
• Brain infections
• Other infections
• Trouble Thinking or Remembering
• Headache
• Seizures
• Problems Sleeping
• Slurred Speech
• Problems with Vision or Hearing
• Trouble Speaking and Swallowing
A concussion is a traumatic brain injury that affects your brain function. Effects are usually temporary but can include headaches and problems with concentration, memory, balance, and coordination. Concussions are usually caused by a blow to the head or a violent shaking of the head and body. This occurs from a mild blow to the head, either with or without loss of consciousness and can lead to temporary cognitive symptoms.
Symptoms for a concussion may include headache, confusion, lack of coordination, memory loss, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, ringing in the ears, sleepiness, and excessive fatigue.
There’s no specific cure for a concussion. Rest and restricting activities will allow the brain to recover. This means one should temporarily reduce sports, playing video games, watching TV, or too much socializing.
If you are experiencing a brain injury, call 911. Head injuries can be life-threatening and you should be seen by a healthcare provider.
