Perhaps no bodily organ is more researched yet still so little understood than the human brain. Capable of processing countless quantities of information per second and responsible for everything from our sense of smell to our ability to reason, much still remains to be uncovered about this mysterious grey mass. Yet one thing is certain – trauma to the brain, or traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a serious event that warrants immediate medical attention. In our fast-paced modern era, mild TBIs such as concussions are on the rise, affecting everyone from car accident victims to professional athletes. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, almost 15% of TBIs are caused by car accidents each year, accounting for 286,000 injuries – disturbingly, the actual number may be higher, as many brain injuries show subtle symptoms that go unreported.

When is a bump on the head more than just a bump on the head, and what do you need to know to keep your brain happy (and healthy) for years to come?

What’s a Concussion?

According to the Mayo Clinic, a concussion is a traumatic brain injury (TBI) that affects the functioning of your brain. Concussions can occur as the result of a sudden blow the head – such as from a car accident or fall – or may also occur as the result of violent and sudden shaking, where the brain itself makes impact with the skull. Though many people think concussions always result in a loss of consciousness, think again! Most, in fact, do not.

Are You at Risk?

In recent years, concussions have been increasingly in the spotlight in the national news, with new research showing the long term detrimental effects of repeated TBIs to pro athletes. Long term damage can be avoided, however, with prompt treatment.

Symptoms of concussions and TBIs may include:

  • Headache
  • Loss of memory
  • Confusion
  • Dizziness
  • Vomiting
  • Ringing in the ears
  • Confusion
  • Slurred speech
  • Fatigue

What You Can Expect

The key to effective treatment for concussions is rapid medical attention. If you’ve experienced any trauma to the head, seek professional help immediately. To help assess your condition, healthcare professionals may use a variety of tests, including CT scans and neurological examinations. Are you a pro athlete? Prepare for bench time – one of the most important aspects of concussion treatment is avoiding high-impact activities that could risk re-injury. The good news? At PROS Miami, with our veteran healthcare professionals, industry-standard tools, and dedication to service with a smile, you can rest assured you’re in good hands.

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