March is Brain Injury Awareness Month

Did you know that March is national brain injury awareness month? According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there were about 214,110 traumatic brain injury (TBI)- related hospitalizations in 2020 and 69,473 TBI-related deaths in 2021. Brain injuries can range from mild to severe and have the potential to have a number of life-altering effects. It is important that we educate ourselves about the different types, causes, symptoms, and treatments of brain injuries and spread awareness about the prominence of brain injuries.

Types of Brain Injuries

Generally speaking, there are three main types of brain injuries that an individual may sustain – mild, moderate, and severe. A mild TBI, also known as a concussion, is the least severe type of brain injury an individual can sustain. The symptoms of a mild TBI vary from person to person but often do not last long. On the other hand, moderate and severe brain injuries are much more serious and can lead to a number of different complications, such as brain bleeds, seizures, and permanent brain damage, if not treated properly.

Causes of Brain Injuries

There are various reasons an individual may sustain a brain injury. Here are some of the most common causes:

• Falls
• Sports-related injuries
• Motor vehicle accidents
• Assault 
• Work accidents

If you sustain a brain injury due to the negligence or purposefulness of another, it is crucial that you speak with a New Haven brain injury attorney who can help you recover the compensation you may be entitled to. An attorney can help you gather evidence and create a convincing claim on your behalf, alleviating undue stress caused by the injury.

Symptoms of Brain Injuries

The symptoms that an individual may experience as a result of a brain injury are dependent on the severity and nature of the brain injury. However, here are some of the most common symptoms that people experience:

• Headaches
• Confusion
• Fatigue
• Lightheadedness 
• Difficulty sleeping
• Inability to concentrate
• Dizziness
• Sensitivity to light
• Nausea 
• Irritability 
• Ringing in the ears
• Trouble with memory
• Blurred vision
• Loss of coordination 
• Behavioral changes

Diagnosis

There are a few different ways in which a TBI may be diagnosed. The first way is through imaging tests such as a computed tomography (CT) scan or a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) exam. This will allow the doctor to explore the internal damage of the brain. A doctor may also use a tool called the Glasgow Coma Scale (GSC) to determine your level of consciousness. In addition to these more complex tools and tests, the doctor will also ask you to describe your symptoms and how the incident occurred.

Treatments

The treatment for a TBI is dependent on a number of factors such as severity, location, and size. In extreme cases, you may have to undergo surgery in order to repair dead brain tissue or a fractured skull. In less severe cases, you may be administered prescription medication to reduce pain,  anxiety, and other adverse effects. Additionally, you may undergo rehabilitation therapies such as physical therapy or occupational therapy in order build back your strength, flexibility, and coordination.