Five Facts About Brain Injuries

Five Facts About Traumatic Brain Injuries You Should Know

Did you know that over 5.3 million adults and children in the United States are living with a permanent brain injury-related disability? That’s nearly one out of every 60 people. Traumatic brain injuries are a leading cause of death and disability, with nearly 50% of them caused by falls. March is the Brain Injury Association of America’s Brain Injury Awareness Month. In light of that, Pegalis Law Group, LLC is taking a look at five facts about traumatic brain injuries you should know.

1. More Than My Brain Injury: Spreading Brain Injury Awareness

This year’s Brain Injury Awareness Month theme is “More Than My Brain Injury.” Organizations like the Brain Injury Association of America are working hard to reduce the stigmas attached to brain injuries. Understanding brain injuries as chronic conditions can help spread awareness, improve care and support for those with brain injuries, and hopefully prevent many brain injuries from occurring. One of the least understood forms of traumatic brain injuries – and yet one of the most common – is concussions.

2. Brain Injuries Are Often Caused by Falls, Injuries, & Strokes

A sudden or severe blow, bump, or jolt to the head may cause a traumatic brain injury (TBI). Traumatic brain injuries are typically classified as mild, moderate, or severe. Common causes of these injuries include slip-and-falls, strokes, car and workplace accidents, sports injuries, and acts of violence, including assault or gunshots. Most people who sustain a mild head injury or concussion can recover at home. People with moderate or severe head injuries may require ongoing support and healthcare.

3. Concussions Are Common & Symptoms May Not Be Apparent

It’s estimated someone experiences a brain or head injury every nine seconds. However, not everybody realizes they’ve sustained an injury. Less severe head injuries may include concussions, which can alter how your brain works, even if they’re not life-threatening. Concussion symptoms vary but may include:

• Headaches
• Dizziness
• Vision or balance issues
• Irritability
• Nausea
• Slower reactions
• Ringing sensation in the ears
• Confusion
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Difficulty sleeping

4. Concussions & Brain Injuries Aren’t Always Diagnosed Correctly

Due to overlapping symptoms with many other injuries and conditions, concussions are often misdiagnosed among children and older adults. Head injuries can affect a child’s brain development and limit their ability to enjoy participation in school and recreational activities. No matter your age, a head injury may affect your physical, mental, and social health, leading to cognitive and behavioral changes. Talk to your loved ones about the importance of recognizing the symptoms of a concussion or other head injury. Not being treated or taking the wrong medications (blood thinners) after a head injury can increase your risk for bleeding in the brain, which may result in a more debilitating injury or even death.

5. Helmets Help Protect People of All Ages From Brain/Head Injuries

You can prevent many traumatic brain injuries by wearing a helmet. Helmets help absorb some of the energy sustained by the impact when you fall. If you’re riding a bicycle or motorcycle, helmets also help increase your visibility to motorists. Always wear a helmet when riding a horse, skateboarding, roller-skating, skiing, or playing a contact sport such as football, hockey, or lacrosse. Wearing helmets saves lives and lowers your risk of severe, life-altering brain injuries. If you’re an adult, set a positive example for your children by wearing a helmet.

Focused on Spreading Public Awareness for the Past 50 Years

As a New York-based personal injury and medical malpractice law firm for 50 years, Pegalis Law Group, LLC is dedicated to spreading awareness about various injuries and chronic conditions. Please visit our website and follow us on YouTube, Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn to receive additional insights about being proactive about your family’s healthcare this year.