MINOR HEAD INJURY - WatsonsHealth

MINOR HEAD INJURY

Minor head injury, also often referred to as concussion, mild head injury or minor brain injury, may be defined as a trauma-induced alteration in mental status (confusion) that may or may not involve loss of consciousness. Most minor head injuries result in no long-term damage to the brain. However it can cause temporary disruption of brain function. People who have had a minor head injury often experience Post-traumatic amnesia (PTA) of less than one hour after the injury. This is a period where they act strangely and confuse and are unable to remember what has just happened.

Minor head injury is commonly caused by falls, road crashes, assaults and sports accidents.

The symptoms of a minor head injury are usually mild and temporary. They may include:

  • mild headache
  • nausea (feeling sick)
  • mild dizziness
  • mild blurred vision
  • temporary ringing in the ears
  • mild confusion

DIAGNOSIS

Doctors can have an immediate assessment of the injury through a method called Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS). It is a 15-point test that assesses your mental status. A high GCS score indicates a less severe injury. He or she will likely to know the story of your injury as well as examine any wounds or signs of physical trauma. Imaging tests such as X-rays and CT scans can determine the extent of the damage in your head or brain. From there, your doctor will be able to identify if the injury is mild.  Patients are monitored to know in case new symptoms would emerge as a sign of a more severe condition.

 

TREATMENT

Most people who attend hospital with a minor head injury are allowed to return home shortly afterwards and will make a full recovery within a few days. Pain-killers such as Acetaminophen are usually prescribed to relieve pain caused by the injury. Consult your doctor if you develop any new or worsening symptoms regarding the injury.

 

PREVENTION

Accidents are something cannot be prevented. However, you can reduce your risk for any head injury by wearing protective gear such as helmets. It is also important to use the correct safety equipment for work and sports.

Related Articles

TETRALOGY OF FALLOT

Overview and FactsTypes and SymptomsDiagnosis & MedicationsOverview and Facts Tetralogy of Fallot is a congenital heart defect that affects the [...]

TRICHINOSIS

Overview and FactsTypes and SymptomsDiagnosis & MedicationsOverview and Facts Trichinosis, also known as trichinellosis, is a parasitic infection caused by [...]

TRIGEMINAL NEURALGIA

Overview and FactsTypes and SymptomsDiagnosis & MedicationsOverview and Facts Trigeminal neuralgia is a neurological condition characterized by severe facial pain. [...]