March is Brain Injury Awareness Month
Each March, Brain Injury Awareness Month is recognized to bring attention to the prevention of traumatic brain injury. Head injuries can be as mild as a bump, bruise or small cut, but can also be as severe as a concussion, fractured skull, internal bleeding or brain damage.
Many traumatic brain injuries are not diagnosed until the person begins to have problems down the road, but many brain injuries can be prevented by taking precautionary measures and being aware of your environment. In a work environment, that includes wearing your hard hat, looking for spills or objects you could trip over, and using tools and machinery properly.
However, brain injuries don’t just happen at work, but can happen during everyday activities in life. That’s why it’s important to wear your seatbelt and don’t text and drive. It’s also important to wear a helmet while riding a bike or playing a sport that requires one. You can also prevent falls in your home by installing handrails, using nonslip mats in the bathroom and improving lighting in darker spaces in your home.
Symptoms of Head Trauma
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It's always a good idea to be evaluated by a medical professional after a head injury, even if it's mild. Especially because head injuries can worsen over time. However, if you experience any of the below symptoms, you should seek medical attention immediately.
Seeking medical attention after a head injury can lower your risk of further complications. A health care provider can also monition your symptoms to make sure they do not worsen. They can also evaluate people who have trouble describing their symptoms, such as young children, or people with memory or cognitive impairment.
Article by Corinne McGrath