Head and Brain Injuries

Also called: Concussion, Traumatic brain injury

Every year, millions of people in the U.S. sustain head and brain injuries. Some are minor because the skull is quite good at protecting the brain. More than half are bad enough that people must go to the hospital. Serious head injuries can lead to permanent brain damage or death.
Symptoms of minor head injuries usually go away without treatment. Serious head injuries need emergency treatment. Clues that a head injury may be serious include

•    A headache that gets worse or does not go away
•    Repeated vomiting or nausea
•    Convulsions or seizures
•    An inability to awaken from sleep
•    Dilation of one or both pupils of the eyes
•    Slurred speech
•    Weakness or numbness in the arms or legs
•    Loss of coordination
•    Increased confusion, restlessness or agitation
Treatment and outcome depend on the injury. People with severe injuries usually need rehabilitation.