Insight Brain & Spine Institute – March is Brain Injury Awareness month, a time dedicated each year to educating the public about brain injuries and the important role prevention plays in keeping our most precious organ safe at home, at work, and at play. Did you know there are more than 5.3 million people in the United States who are currently living with permanent brain-related disability? That’s one in every 60 people, according to the Brain Injury Association of America. Each year, more than two million people in the U.S. will experience some form of traumatic brain injury. Whether you are a senior citizen susceptible to falls, a student athlete, or work in a physically demanding job, it is important to understand the top causes of brain injuries and the preventive measures you should practice to protect your brain. Here are the top five causes of brain injuries and what you can do to prevent them.
Falls
Slips and falls are the most common cause of traumatic brain injuries in the U.S. According to the National Institutes of Health, falls account for about 32% of hospital admissions for adults older than 65 and more than 50% of deaths in older adults. Slips and falls are also a common cause of brain injuries in children and adolescents, accounting for nearly half of all brain injuries in ages 0 to 17. Slip and fall accidents can be caused by a wide range of factors, including wet or icy surfaces, ladders or stairs, and tripping over objects. Fortunately, falls are easily preventable by keeping all walkways well-lit and clear of clutter or ice/spills, using handrails on stairs and in bathrooms, wearing appropriate footwear for the conditions, and using best practices when climbing ladders. Older adults can also benefit from balance exercises and fall prevention programs offered by physical therapists.
Motor Vehicle Accidents
Motor vehicle accidents, including automobile and off-road vehicle accidents, are another leading cause of brain injuries in the U.S. According to the International Brain Injury Association, motor vehicle accidents account for about half of all traumatic brain injuries each year. Sudden impact or ejection are a major cause of motor vehicle-related TBIs, but even minor collisions can lead to serious brain injuries. To protect your brain while driving, always wear a seatbelt, never operate a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs, follow all safety rules and speed limits, and avoid distractions like texting while driving.
Sports & Outdoor Activities
People who participate in football, soccer, ice hockey, boxing, and other contact sports face a significantly higher risk of traumatic brain injury. According to University of Michigan Health, about 3.8 million concussions occur each year in the U.S. from sports-related injuries. Although athletes of all ages are susceptible to head injuries, student athletes are most vulnerable. The University of Pittsburgh Schools of Health Sciences reports as many as two in 10 high school athletes who play contact sports will experience a concussion. Outdoor recreational activities such as skiing, snowboarding, biking, rock climbing, and playground equipment also pose increased risk for brain injury. Although injuries in high-impact sports and activities are not always avoidable, there are a series of precautions that can greatly reduce the likelihood of most injuries. First, it is essential that all safety rules and regulations in sports are followed at all times, including practices. This includes learning proper techniques for actions like tackling in football or head to ball contact in soccer. In activities like biking, skateboarding, and skiing, helmets and other protective gear should be worn and assessed for fit and safety regularly.
Workplace Accidents
Head and brain injuries are also common in workplaces, especially in fields like construction, manufacturing, agriculture, and public safety. If your occupation involves the use of heavy equipment, you’re at risk. In recent data from the CDC, construction workers face the highest risk for traumatic brain injury, with older workers (over age 65) and foreign-born workers more likely to experience a fatal TBI. To protect yourself and others from brain injuries in the workplace, always educate yourself on safety protocols and ensure they are followed. This includes wearing protective gear like hard hats whenever applicable. It is also essential to use caution when operating heavy machinery or working at heights. If you ever have questions or notice unsafe conditions in the workplace, report your concerns to a supervisor immediately.
Assaults & Violence
Brain injuries resulting from physical assault, domestic violence, and gun-related incidents are also very common. Unfortunately, due to the sensitive nature of these incidents, many injuries are not treated and go unreported. According to the CDC’s National Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence Survey, nearly one in four women have experienced domestic violence. It is believed that up to 90% of these women have had a traumatic brain injury. If you or someone you know are involved in a situation involving assault or violence, you are encouraged to seek help. Even a minor head injury can lead to serious conditions like TBI. Community violence prevention and support groups can also provide valuable confidential resources and education.
Brain injuries are common and many are treatable, but they can also lead to long-term effects on memory, mobility, and quality of life if the proper precautions are not taken. Taking time to familiarize yourself with the common causes of brain injury and what to do if one occurs will help keep you and your loved ones safe in any situation. To learn more about brain injuries and treatment options at our locations in Flint, Metro Detroit, Ohio, and Chicago, contact the Insight Brain & Spine Institute today.
FAQ
Q: What are the most common symptoms of brain injuries?
A: Brain injuries can range from mild concussions to traumatic brain injuries. Depending on the type of injury, symptoms may appear immediately and some may develop over time. Common physical symptoms of brain injuries include persistent headaches, nausea or vomiting, dizziness, blurred/double vision, and seizures. Also watch for cognitive symptoms like confusion or disorientation, memory loss, and sudden mood changes.
Q: When should I seek medical attention for a brain or head injury?
A: Call 911 or go to an emergency room if you experience loss of consciousness, seizures, persistent vomiting/nausea, severe or worsening headache, difficulty speaking, numbness or loss of balance, and extreme drowsiness. Even minor head and brain injuries can lead to long-term problems and should be taken seriously. If in doubt, it’s always best to seek medical attention.
Q: Am I at greater risk for a brain injury if I have experienced one before?
A: Yes. People who have experienced a brain injury in the past are at greater risk for experiencing another. This is particularly true if another injury occurs before the first brain injury has fully healed or if you participate in high-impact activities such as football, which can lead to repeated concussions.