Posts tagged "brain injuries"

March is National Brain Injury Month and yesterday Philly.com posted an article about the myths and facts about sports-related concussions. Here are some myths and facts about these types of head injuries.

Myth: Everyone with a concussion must immediately get a CT scan or MRI.

Fact: Because concussion damage occurs at the microscopic level, it cannot be seen on MRI or CT scans of the brain. Doctors should perform a physical exam and look for a patients who appear dazed/stunned, answer questions slowly, have nausea/vomiting, a sensitivity to light and noise, and inability to recall events before they hit their head.

Myth: Treating a concussion may hide symptoms.

Fact: Over the counter medications are ok to use with a doctor approved "return-to-activity" regimen.

Myth: A person with a concussion should not fall asleep.

Fact: Drowsiness is common with concussions and rest may help allow the brain to heal.

Myth: Concussions do not cause long-term effects.

Fact: Long-term effects may include depression, anxiety, double vision, mental impairment and increased risk of dementia.

The article also reported that teens and children are more susceptible to serious head injury, which could last for years. In Pennsylvania, a new law took effect in July 2011 stating that a student-athlete's parent or guardian must sign a concussion-awareness information form before the student-athlete is eligible to participate in school athletics. Any student-athlete suspected of a concussion must immediately be removed from play. Also, any student-athlete who has a concussion must obtain medical clearance before being allowed to return to practice or competition. Coaches who violate the removal-from-play and return-to-play policies would be suspended from coaching for the rest of the season.

If you or a loved one has suffered a brain injury as the result of someone's negligence, contact a personal injury attorney to find out if you can seek compensation for lost wages, medical bills, as well as pain and suffering. Marciano & MacAvoy, P.C. are experienced personal injury attorneys who can evaluate your case. Call today--your initial consultation is free of charge.

Source: Philly.com, Sports Concussions: Myths and Facts, February 29, 2012