Photo by Denese Lups /Phototalk
The World Head Injury Awareness Day is to remind us on how we could reduce accidents and brain injuries and it looks at the number of people who have suffered from a mild concussion to severe brain injuries.
The following four areas in which brain injuries occur are:
Accidents – this could be from a motor vehicle accident, motor bike accident, bicycle accident or even a pedestrian being knocked over by a vehicle. 50% of most brain injuries are reported from these incidents.
Falls – about 25% of other head injuries are either sport related injuries or from falling while walking either on trails, stair cases or tripping over the dog or even the carpet.
Violence – this forms part of the other 20% of head injuries.
Other – the other part which forms the 5% is medical cases
Head injuries can result in damage to the most important part of the central nervous system, our brain. This can affect one’s health and well being. Even the smallest knock can result in serious repercussions if the correct care and treatment is not given in time.
Head injuries can cause problems from loss of memory to severe paralysis and even death.
Some signs and symptoms, to help assist you or your family to make informed decisions regarding your health after a head injury incident.
-Headaches – continuous or sudden change in pain level
-Persistent Vomiting
-Dizziness
-Slurred speech
-Confusion or Disorientation
-Loss of balance or weakness in the limbs
-Any bleeding or clear fluid coming out of the nose or ears
-Neck stiffness
-Noticeable change in pupil size and reaction
-Increased drowsiness or unconsciousness
-Difficulty in waking from sleep
Some patients may be more tired than usual, allow them to sleep but check every hour or so- you need to ensure the patient is reacting normally. Do not be confused between a normal state of sleep and unconsciousness.
The patient may have a headache and pain medication may be taken for this.
Try and keep the patient quiet and let him or her rest as much as possible. Avoid active games, TV watching and video games until symptoms subside.
Medical attention should be sought if there are any further concerns.
Take time to familiarise yourself with the signs and symptoms, as mentioned above, also taking into consideration how the injury occurred.
If you have any doubts whether to seek any further medical assistants contact ER24’s National Contact Centre on 084 124 for further medical advice.
Derrick Banks, ER24