5 Things You Need to Know About Head Injuries

1. Head Injuries Range in Severity

A head injury is usually classified as an open or closed injury. An open head injury can result in something as mild as a bump or as severe as a skull fracture. A closed head injury involves damage to the brain. It may be a slight or severe brain injury. A mild jarring to the brain is often called a concussion. In a more severe closed head injury the brain swells and brain tissue can compress. Brain damage can result. The type of injury sustained depends on not only the intensity of the blow to the head but the location on the skull.

2. It's Better to Be Safe Than Sorry

One of the main causes of head injuries is motor vehicle accidents. Always buckle up. While it may not prevent head injuries every time it greatly reduced your chances of sustaining a traumatic brain injury. Other causes of head injuries are falls especially from bikes. Wear a bike helmet and make sure your kids do. A helmet should be worn not only when bike riding but also when you're skating, skateboarding or snow skiing. Install window locks to prevent young kids from falling from a window.

3. When in Doubt Have It Checked Out

It's important to realize not all head injuries seem severe especially at first. Because of this a person can have sustained a brain injury and not know it at first. That's why it's important to recognize symptoms that may mean a head injury is more serious than you thought and needs medical attention. Watch for confusion, trouble with balance, vision changes, vomiting and trouble talking or thinking clear. Symptoms may occur immediately or a few hours after the injury. Trust your gut if you just don't feel right get to a doctor.

4. Confirm a Diagnosis

Once you get to a doctor and she suspects a head injury she will likely do a neurological exam. She will ask a lot of questions that seem simple but are intended to determine if you are with it and know what's going on. A CAT scan may be ordered to get a view of your head and look for fractures or bleeds and swelling in the brain.

5. Not Always a Quick Fix

If a head injury is mild and causes a bump or a mild concussion no treatment may be needed. A skull fracture may require careful monitoring for an increase in symptoms. The most severe head injury which may result in a traumatic brain injury usually requires the most treatment. Immediate medical care may mean surgery and medication to treat swelling of the brain. Some head injuries will require rehabilitation which may include physical, occupational and speech therapy.