What causes brain injuries?
A brain injury can be caused by a blow or other traumatic force to the head. Brain injuries are often caused by falls, car accidents, and sports injuries. Children are at an increased risk of brain injuries caused by falls or sports. Adults over the age of 60 are also at an increased risk of brain injuries.
What are the symptoms of a brain injury?
A brain injury can cause a number of different symptoms depending on the nature and severity of the injury. Mild brain injuries typically result in symptoms like headaches, dizziness, difficulty speaking, and nausea. Mild brain injuries can also cause loss of consciousness for a few seconds to a few minutes.
Moderate to severe brain injuries cause symptoms like:
- Clear fluid draining from the ears or nose
- Seizures
- Persistent headache
- Slurred speech
Moderate to severe brain injuries can also cause loss of consciousness for a few minutes to a few hours. The symptoms of a brain injury can appear immediately or days to weeks after the event. Without proper treatment, brain injuries can lead to a number of serious complications like blood clots, strokes, coma, and brain death.
Concussion
A concussion is a type of brain injury that occurs when your brain moves rapidly against the walls of your skull. Most concussions are caused by a fall or blow to the head. Although concussions don’t typically cause loss of consciousness, they can impair your memory, concentration, balance, and coordination.
If you suffer from a concussion or other brain injury, Dr. Rotenberg can provide you with an accurate diagnosis and determine the best way to manage your condition.
How do I know if my child has a brain injury?
Infants and young children may be unable to communicate their symptoms. If your child is suffering from a brain injury, you may notice a number of symptoms, including:
- Changes in eating or sleeping habits
- Abnormal irritability
- Persistent crying
- Drowsiness
- Seizures
- Loss of interest in toys or activities
If your child suffers a severe injury or blow to the head, you should seek emergency medical care. Even if emergency care isn’t required, you should still seek medical attention after your child experiences a head injury. If your child exhibits behavioral changes after a head injury, Dr. Rotenberg can provide you with an accurate diagnosis and prompt, effective treatment.
Treatment depends on the severity of damage caused by the injury. While mild brain injuries can be managed with limited activities and over-the-counter painkillers, moderate to severe injuries may require prescription medication, rehabilitation, or surgery. To speak with Dr. Rotenberg about treating a brain injury, book an appointment by phone.
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