Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) can vary in severity, ranging from mild to severe.
Traumatic brain injuries, or TBIs, claim approximately one lakh lives in India per year, according to some estimates. These casualties are among the one million people who suffer from serious head injuries in India annually. In India, one in six trauma victims succumb to their injuries, compared to one in 200 in the United States. These statistics underscore a stark contrast in access to healthcare facilities. Additionally, lack of information and awareness exacerbates the issue. Myths surrounding TBI further compound the problem. To uncover the truth behind five such myths, Onlymyhealth consulted with Dr. Sudhir Gore, Head of Emergency Medicine at Fortis Hospital, Kalyan.
Debunking Myths Surrounding Traumatic Brain Injury
In this article, Dr. Gore dispels five myths surrounding traumatic brain injury:
Myth 1: Losing consciousness accounts for traumatic brain injury
While it’s commonly believed that losing consciousness indicates a traumatic brain injury, this isn’t entirely accurate. TBI is complex, and losing consciousness is just one possible symptom. Even if consciousness isn’t lost, TBI can still occur and potentially harm brain cells. Therefore, whether the injury is mild or severe, it’s important to seek medical attention from a specialist after a head injury.
Myth 2: The effects of a traumatic brain injury are visible right away
While it’s commonly believed that the effects of a traumatic brain injury (TBI) are immediately visible through changes in personality, memory loss, and cognitive abilities, this is not always the case. In some instances, TBI may manifest with mild symptoms that could be overlooked. Additionally, mild TBI can present as dehydration, migraines, or poor sleep, potentially leading to misdiagnosis. If left undiagnosed, these injuries can have long-term repercussions.
Myth 3: If CT scan and MRI reports come back clean, there is no brain injury
In cases of mild brain damage where there is no bleeding or swelling, brain scans may not reveal any abnormalities, leaving the injury undiagnosed. Therefore, if you experience such an accident, it’s important not to delay and seek consultation with a specialist.
Myth 4: Only athletes get concussions
Certainly, athletes are at a higher risk of experiencing concussions, but they’re not the exclusive group affected. Concussions can result from various incidents such as accidents, falls, physical trauma, domestic violence, and exposure to blasts. Therefore, if you’re experiencing symptoms associated with a concussion, it’s crucial not to delay and seek medical attention promptly.
Myth 5: Overcoming a Brain Injury Is Simple
While many individuals with concussions and mild traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) typically recover within days or months, the timeframe varies depending on the individual, the severity of the injury, and its cause. Mental health plays a significant role as well, with many TBI patients experiencing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Therefore, it’s crucial to develop a tailored treatment plan for each patient. Additionally, counseling should be integrated into trauma treatment protocols.
Indeed, traumatic brain injury is a complex condition that varies from one individual to another. In certain instances, symptoms may even remain undetected. Therefore, seeking prompt medical consultation is imperative in any suspected case of traumatic brain injury.