News

Brain Injury Awareness Month

02-24-2019

As part of our community outreach, Community Care Ambulance provides information on our website about health and wellness in addition to company information and career opportunities. We’re focusing this blog on understanding brain injuries – what they are, symptoms and when to call an ambulance. 

What is a Brain Injury? 

When we hear “brain injury” we may think of a major trauma to the head that occurred from a significant event such as a car accident. However, the most common brain injury is a concussion. 

There has been a lot of news the last few years surrounding concussions and youth sports. The elderly are also susceptible to concussions due to falls. However, anyone can suffer a concussion. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), a concussion is “caused by a bump, blow or jolt to the head or by a hit to the body that causes the head and brain to move rapidly back and forth.” 

Although a concussion may not seem life-threatening, it is serious. Plus, there may be no visible signs – such as bleeding – so it can be harder to identify. 

Signs and Symptoms of a Brain Injury

Since the majority of brain injuries are concussions, here we explain how to identify concussion signs and symptoms. The CDC outlines the following: 

Concussion Signs Observed By Others

-Can’t recall events prior to or after a hit or fall.

-Appears dazed or stunned.

-Forgets an instruction, is confused about an assignment or position, or is unsure of the game, score or opponent.

-Moves clumsily.

-Answers questions slowly.

-Loses consciousness (even briefly).

-Shows mood, behavior or personality changes.

Concussion Symptoms Reported by Patient

-Headache or “pressure” in head.

-Nausea or vomiting.

-Balance problems or dizziness, or double or blurry vision.

-Bothered by light or noise.

-Feeling sluggish, hazy, foggy or groggy.

-Confusion, concentration or memory issues.

-Just not “feeling right,” or “feeling down.”

A concussion injury needs to be seen by a medical professional. However, if you or someone you know is experiencing any of the danger signs of a concussion or head injury, call for an ambulance right away. Danger signs include having one pupil larger than the other, inability to wake up, slurred speech, repeated vomiting and loss of consciousness. 

The Brain Injury Association of Ohio (BIAOH) 

BIAOH provides services and support to injury survivors and their families. From support groups to advocacy to an annual summit, BIAOH is a valuable resource for anyone impacted by a brain injury. 

Learn about other ways Community Care Ambulance is committed to the health of our communities – like our healthcare screenings and CPR instruction. If you have an event or idea that aligns with our mission, please call us at 833-698-5684. 

Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn for our latest updates!