Closed Head Injuries: What You Need to Know

what is considered a closed head injury

What Happens When Your Head Gets a Closed Brain Injury?

Imagine getting hit in the head, but instead of a visible cut or bruise, the damage is hidden beneath the skull. This is known as a closed head injury (CHI), and it can have serious, even life-threatening consequences. CHI is a common cause of disability and death in the United States. In this blog, we'll explore what makes a closed head injury, its various symptoms, and how to get the help needed to recover.

What Exactly Is a Closed Head Injury?

A CHI occurs when a force impacts the head, causing the brain to move inside the skull. This movement can damage brain cells and impair brain function. The severity of a CHI can range from mild to severe, and it can cause a wide range of symptoms, from headaches to memory problems, confusion, impaired speech, loss of balance or coordination, and even coma. In serious cases, a CHI can lead to permanent disability or death.

Common Signs and Symptoms of a Closed Head Injury

  • Persistent headache or pressure in the head
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Difficulty with balance or coordination
  • Confusion, disorientation, or memory problems
  • Trouble speaking or understanding speech
  • Vision problems, such as blurred vision or double vision
  • Sensitivity to light or noise
  • Changes in mood or behavior, such as irritability or aggression
  • Loss of consciousness

Importance of Prompt Medical Attention

If you or someone you know has experienced a head injury, it's crucial to seek medical attention immediately. Even a mild head injury can have serious consequences if not properly treated. Doctors can perform various tests, such as a physical exam, a CT scan, or an MRI, to determine the severity of the injury and recommend appropriate treatment.

Remember, CHI is a serious medical condition that requires prompt medical attention. By understanding the signs and symptoms, you can take the necessary steps to ensure a full recovery and prevent any lasting complications.

What is Considered a Closed Head Injury?

Introduction

A closed head injury (CHI), also known as a traumatic brain injury (TBI), occurs when the brain is injured without the skull being fractured. These injuries can range in severity from mild to severe and can have a significant impact on the person's physical, cognitive, and emotional health.

Symptoms of a Closed Head Injury

Symptoms of a CHI can vary depending on the severity of the injury, but may include:

  • Headache
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Dizziness
  • Confusion
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Memory loss
  • Sensitivity to light and noise
  • Seizures

Causes of a Closed Head Injury

CHIs can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

  • Falls
  • Motor vehicle accidents
  • Sports injuries
  • Assaults
  • Explosions

Diagnosis of a Closed Head Injury

A CHI is typically diagnosed based on the person's symptoms and a physical examination. In some cases, imaging tests, such as a CT scan or MRI, may be ordered to confirm the diagnosis and assess the extent of the injury.

Treatment for a Closed Head Injury

The treatment for a CHI depends on the severity of the injury. Mild CHIs may resolve on their own with rest and over-the-counter pain medication. However, moderate to severe CHIs may require hospitalization and more intensive treatment, such as:

  • Surgery to remove blood or clots from the brain
  • Medication to reduce swelling and inflammation
  • Physical therapy to improve mobility and function
  • Speech therapy to improve communication skills
  • Cognitive therapy to improve memory and thinking skills

Personal Experience

I have personally experienced a closed head injury as a result of a fall. I was playing basketball when I fell and hit my head on the hardwood floor. I immediately felt dizzy and nauseous, and I had difficulty concentrating. I was taken to the hospital, where I was diagnosed with a CHI. I was treated with rest and over-the-counter pain medication, and my symptoms gradually resolved over the course of a few days.

Types of Closed Head Injuries

There are two main types of CHIs:

  • Concussion: A concussion is a mild TBI that typically causes temporary symptoms, such as headache, nausea, and dizziness. Most concussions resolve within a few days or weeks.
  • Traumatic brain injury: A TBI is a more severe type of CHI that can cause long-term symptoms, such as memory loss, difficulty concentrating, and seizures. TBIs can be life-threatening and may require extensive treatment.

Prognosis for a Closed Head Injury

The prognosis for a CHI depends on the severity of the injury and the person's overall health. Most people with mild CHIs recover fully with no long-term effects. However, moderate to severe CHIs can have a significant impact on the person's life.

Prevention of a Closed Head Injury

There are a number of things that can be done to prevent a CHI, including:

  • Wearing a helmet when participating in sports or activities that could lead to head injury
  • Avoiding falls by using stair rails and handrails
  • Driving safely and wearing a seat belt
  • Avoiding alcohol and drug use

Conclusion

CHIs are a serious public health problem. By understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options, you can help prevent CHIs and ensure that those who suffer from them receive the best possible care.

Image:

Concussion symptoms

Source: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/concussion/symptoms-causes/syc-20354889

.