Head injuries can range from a bump to the head to a skull fracture. Head injuries can cause brain damage and even death.
A simple first aid kit and the symptoms of a concussion can be helpful in quickly treating a head injury.
Types
There are many head injuries, and each type can have a different severity.
A Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is when the brain becomes damaged. This usually happens after an accident. TBI can occur if an object strikes the head or enters the brain via the skull.
Examples include a ball striking the head at high speeds, falling from great heights onto the head or a gunshot wound.
TBI can also be caused by violent head shaking, where the brain can bounce around in the skull. These cases are frequently related to whiplash.
TBI causes brain damage, which can lead to blood clots or bleeding. An intracranial hematoma, or blood clot in the brain, is a condition known as “intracranial hemostasis (ICH).
An ICH may be more severe or less severe depending upon its size and location within the brain.
A concussion refers to a type of TBI where the brain is temporarily unable to function normally. Concussion symptoms aren’t always severe or last long, but they can cause complications.
The skull is made from very thick, the hard bone that protects the brain from injury. However, it is possible to break or headache
Feeling sick or nauseous
mild dizziness
A mild head injury can be characterized by:
- Shortly, you may feel tired.
- Confusion or distraction
- vomiting
- a lasting headache
- Temporary changes in behavior
- Memory problems
- Loss of balance
A severe head injury can cause:
- significant bleeding
- Not waking up after falling asleep
- having a seizure
- Problems with vision, taste, and smell
- It is difficult to stay awake or alert.
- Clear fluid or blood leaking from the nose or ears
- Behind the ears, bruises
- Numbness or weakness
- Speaking with difficulty
The following are the main symptoms of a concussion:
- There is confusion
- A headache
- Dislike of light or noise
- nausea
- Balance problems
- Blurred vision
- feeling groggy
- Concentration difficulties
Head injuries vs. Minor bumps
A bump to the forehead is a common injury, but it rarely causes serious problems. A doctor may not classify damage to the head as a head injury at a specific point.
Head injuries can usually be treated at home with only mild to no symptoms. It is important to be aware of the symptoms of concussions and consult a doctor if they develop.
How to visit a doctor?
Head injuries that are severe or moderate in severity should be treated immediately. A person should seek medical attention if the symptoms of mild head injuries last more than two weeks.
Concussion symptoms may not appear right away. Sometimes the initial symptoms may appear weeks or even days after the injury.
Head injuries should be taken seriously. A doctor should be consulted if someone is concerned about their symptoms even after a minor injury.
How do doctors diagnose a concussion?
The doctor will inquire about the injuries and medical history of the patient. The doctor will examine the neck, head, and face.
Concussions can cause mental confusion. Doctors may conduct tests or ask questions to determine a patient’s memory, concentration, problem-solving abilities, or other aspects of their brain.
To diagnose concussions, doctors may also use the Glasgow Coma scale. These are the things that doctors will evaluate and rate:
- Ability to open their eyes
- Communication skills
- A motor response such as the ability to bend an arm at one’s elbow.
A brain scan may be required if a head injury is severe or moderate.
First aid and treatment
Mild head injuries can be treated at home by many people. A cold pack can be applied to the affected area to reduce swelling.
Anyone can take Tylenol, but it is best to avoid nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or aspirin unless prescribed by a doctor.
A person should seek medical attention within the first 24 hours of sustaining a mild head injury.
It is important to consult a doctor if a person experiences loss of consciousness, confusion, or memory loss.
After sustaining a head injury, a person should not use drugs, alcohol, drive, or engage in contact sports. They might need to miss work or school.
It is best not to move someone with severe head injuries to avoid further injury. If a helmet is worn, it’s best not to remove it.
Prevention
Although it is impossible to prevent head injuries, you can take steps to reduce your risk. These are:
- When riding in a vehicle, wear a seatbelt
- When riding a bike or riding a motorcycle, you should wear a helmet
- Take safety precautions while playing contact sports
Head injuries can have long-lasting consequences, so be sure to take precautions.
