6 Crucial Things to Know About Brain Injuries

6 Crucial Things to Know

Brain injuries are a critical health concern worldwide, affecting millions of individuals annually. For this reason, The Brain Injury Association of America designates the month of March each year as Brain Injury Awareness Month. It aims to raise public awareness about the impact of brain injuries and promote prevention, treatment, and support for affected individuals. However, despite its prevalence, there are still many misconceptions surrounding brain injuries. In observance of Brain Injury Awareness Month, here are six important facts you should know. 

Brain Injuries Are Surprisingly Common 

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs) occur more frequently than most people realize, with an estimated 2.8 million Americans suffering some form of TBI each year. They occur across all age groups and are commonly caused by events such as falls, motor vehicle accidents, sports injuries, and violence. 

Concussions Are the Most Common Type of TBI 

Contrary to conventional belief, not all TBIs are life-threatening. Concussions, often resulting from sports-related head injuries, are the most common type of TBI. While most concussions are mild, some can have lasting impacts, emphasizing the need for immediate medical attention following any head injury. 

Symptoms of Brain Injuries May Not Be Immediately Apparent 

A significant aspect of brain injuries is that their symptoms often don’t show up right away. Many head impacts that seem harmless can cause serious damage or even death after the fact. This fact was recently underscored by the sudden death of comedian Bob Saget after hitting his head. You should always get checked by a doctor after experiencing a head impact, even if you feel okay. 

Brain Injuries Can Have Lasting Effects on Cognitive Abilities 

TBIs can affect how the brain works, leading to potential long-term effects on cognitive abilities. These effects can range from minor memory issues to extensive impairment in thinking, memory, movement, sensation (e.g., vision or hearing), or emotional functioning (e.g., personality changes, depression). 

Brain Injuries Can Have Long-Term Implications for Mental Health 

Beyond physical implications, brain injuries can have profound effects on an individual’s mental health, including increased risks of depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Addressing these mental health concerns is also an essential part of comprehensive care. 

Prevention Is Key 

Many brain injuries are preventable. Safety measures, such as wearing helmets while biking or playing contact sports and adhering to road safety rules, significantly reduce the risk of TBIs. 

Taking standard precautions can reduce the risk of brain injury. However, sometimes they occur due to someone else’s negligence. A car accident where the other driver was at fault is a great example. If you or a loved one has suffered a brain injury in this manner, you may be entitled to compensation for both the immediate treatment of the TBI as well as long-term care. Call our offices to schedule a consultation.