Brain injury: From symptoms to prevention, all you need to know

A mild traumatic brain injury may affect the brain cells on a temporary basis (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock)

“A mild traumatic brain injury may affect the brain cells on a temporary basis. But, a serious injury can result in bruising, torn tissues, bleeding, and damage to the brain ultimately leading to loss of life,” said Dr Prasad added.

Symptoms

One may exhibit a wide range of physical and psychological signs on an immediate basis or even after a few weeks.

Some of the physical symptoms include notorious headaches, speech problems, inability to balance, walk, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, and even fatigue. Sensory symptoms include blurred vision, ringing in the ears, and light sensitivity. Cognitive, psychological, and behavioural symptoms such as confusion, brain fog, disorientation, loss of consciousness, slurred speech, agitation, mood swings, depression, anxiety, memory loss, difficulty in sleeping, brain swelling, convulsions or seizures, loss of coordination, and weakness or numbness in fingers and toes may also be experienced.

“You need to see a doctor on an immediate basis when you notice these symptoms after a traumatic injury. Delaying treatment is dangerous for the patient,” mentioned Dr Prasad.

Complications 

A person become unconscious and go in a coma. This can damage his/her brain, and the person will go into a vegetative state. “During this stage, he/she will be unaware of the surroundings, though the person will open eyes but may fail to understand what is going around. Not only this, a traumatic injury can also cause brain death. Other issues like altered smell and taste, loss of vision, facial paralysis, and even double vision can be seen in these patients,” mentioned Dr Prasad.

How to overcome a traumatic brain injury

One suffering from a traumatic brain injury will require rehabilitation. As per Dr Prasad, an occupational therapist can help one to learn and improve daily activities while a physical therapist will work on mobility and movement patterns, balance and walking. A speech and language therapist will guide in improving communication skills while a neuropsychologist will help one deal with cognitive impairment, behaviours or learn coping strategies.

Tips to prevent a traumatic brain injury

*Wear a seatbelt while driving a car to avoid accidents and brain injury.
*Avoid driving under the influence of alcohol.
*Use a helmet while riding a motorbike or a bicycle.
*Avoid accidental falls by installing handrails in bathrooms.
*Remove rugs that can lead to falls and injuries.
*Use handrails on both sides of staircases.
*Improve lighting in the home.
*Keep stairs and floors clear of clutter.
*Go for regular eye check-ups.
*Avoid wet and slippery floors.

📣 For more lifestyle news, follow us on Instagram | Twitter | Facebook and don’t miss out on the latest updates!