Recognizing Symptoms and Preventing Deaths and Disabilities
According to ByYourSide.org, more than 200,000 people are 
living with traumatic brain injury (TBI)-related disabilities in Florida. Each year, TBIs result in 3,800 deaths, 18,600 hospitalizations and 74,000 emergency department visits in Florida!
A TBI is defined by the Brain Injury Association of America as an alteration in brain function, or other evidence of brain pathology, caused by an external force.
Many people do not realize that a concussion is considered a TBI. A concussion may result from a direct blow to the head, a violent shaking of the head, or a force that disrupts the function of the brain. Common causes include sports related injuries (football, soccer and volleyball), recreational accidents (playgrounds and pools), motor vehicle accidents, bicycle accidents, and slip or trip and falls.
Below are some common early signs to watch for:
Early Signs & Symptoms of a Concussion
- headache
- confusion/amnesia
- dizziness
- ringing in the ear
- nausea/vomiting
- slurred speech
- delayed response to questions
If you suspect a concussion, always seek medical attention immediately. Do not wait!
TBIs can cause a wide range of functional changes—short or long-term—affecting thinking, language, learning, emotions, behavior and/or sensation.
Consequences of a TBI include:
- memory loss
- difficulty with judgment and recognition of limitations
- anxiety and/or depression
- loss of social networking
- feelings of isolation
- slowness or difficulty with speech
- decreased physical coordination
- decreased anger management
- decreased safety awareness
- difficulty initiating, planning, and completing tasks
Current Treatments
It has not yet been proven if the damage from TBIs—including concussions—can be reversed. We know that rest is best for mild concussions. New treatments include the use Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) which is expensive and not covered by most insurances. Another new technology tests one’s blood with a finger prick called “The Concussion Test.” According to the new technology literature, concussions can be diagnosed within one hour by identifying specific proteins in the blood.
Preventing TBIs/Concussions
In the sports arena, experts agree that the best ways to prevent concussion are:
- Play by the rules.
- Wear the appropriate equipment for your sport and wear it properly.
- Examine the playing field for uneven areas or holes.
- Practice good sportsmanship.
In terms of recreational accidents, car accidents and slip or trip and falls, please consider the following tips to prevent or reduce your risk of a brain injury:
- Buckle your seat belt.
- Place children 12 years old and younger in the backseat (to avoid airbag deployment to the head).
- Wear a helmet while operating a motorcycle or bicycle.
- Examine playgrounds for soft landing surfaces.
- Educate yourself and others about concussions and recognizing the symptoms.
