Brain injury or traumatic brain injury (TBI) happens when there is sudden damage of the skull. Brain injury can be categorized in two parts namely: open brain injury and closed brain injury. The former takes place when a part of the brain is damaged by something intrusive, such as a bullet. This can turn fatal within no time at all. On the other hand, closed brain injury is a more common one as it happens when one gets hit by a heavy object, or suffers a severe blow to the skull. This can result in a concussion or contusion. Whatever the nature of this injury may be, it is very important to take immediate action to avoid any unfavorable circumstances. It is difficult to know for sure when a brain injury happens. Each brain injury is unique in its own way and can have various kinds of ramifications. These are some of the most common causes of brain injury:
- Falling (by accident)
- Blow from a heavy object
- Motor vehicle (car) accidents
- Violent assaults
It is estimated that approximately 2.6 million people annually suffer from some form of brain injury in the US. It is commonly referred to as the silent epidemic, since many of those afflicted suffer in silence. Even more disturbing is the fact that 52,000 people die every year from this type of injury. Consequently, serious measures must be taken, and more people should be made aware of TBI through social awareness initiatives.
Consequences
Brain injuries are also classified in two parts in terms of consequences. There are mild and severe brain injuries. When the disorientation is less than 30 minutes, it is known as mild brain injury. However, the more dangerous is severe brain injury. That is when the disorientation is far more than 30 minutes. A patient goes into a state of confusion. Physically, some parts of the body can stop working altogether, and this type of injury can even result in death. In this case, the effects can be both temporary and permanent. Unfortunately, a head injury can change a person’s life forever both mentally and physically. Therefore, it is of utmost importance to recognize the cause as soon as possible and take appropriate measures.
Treatment and prevention
We all know that the brain is one of the most complex part of our body. For this reason, it is very difficult to diagnose and treat a head injury correctly. It can suffice to say that the diagnosis of a brain injury is directly proportional to its severity. The best way to increase chances of treatment is to visit the hospital as soon as one notices the obvious symptoms. Prevention is better than cure. It may sound unbelievably cliché, but it is completely applicable, especially with TBI’s. The significance of this fact can never be neglected. Here are some measures you can take to minimize the risk of a head injury:
- Use seat belts while driving
- Use appropriate head gear when taking part in a sports event
- Never drive under the influence of alcohol
- Avoid dangerous or reckless activities
Do you or someone you know suffer from a TBI? How did it happen? Leave your comments below:
