DIAGNOSIS
Doctors must be quick in assessing and diagnosing traumatic brain injury to avoid the condition to worsen and to avoid complications. He or she may immediately perform a Glasgow Coma Scale that initially checks the person’s movement and ability to follow direction. This is a 15-point test that enables the doctors or emergency personnel to assess the condition and severity of the brain injury. The higher the score mean less severe injuries.
To provide information on the extent of the damage, the doctor may order imaging tests such as CT scan or MRI. Doctors may insert a probe through the skull to monitor the pressure inside the skull due to the swelling of the brain tissues.
TREATMENT
For emergency cases of severe injuries, treatments may include ensuring that the person receives adequate oxygen and blood supply, blood pressure is maintained and monitored, and preventing any further injury to the head or neck.
Additional treatments in the hospital may focus on minimizing secondary damage due to inflammation, bleeding or reduced oxygen supply to the brain, including:
- Medications – Drugs thay may help limit secondary damage are:
- Diuretics
- Anti-seizure Drugs
- Coma-inducing Drugs
- Surgery – Surgery may be performed to address problems that cannot be treated with medications such as removing clotted blood in the brain and repairing skull fractures.
- Rehabilitation – Rehabilitation is needed to improve the abilities (physical and cognitive) that has been damage because of the injury.They may need specialist to attend to these needs like Psychiatrist, Occupational and Physical therapist, Speech therapist, counselor or neuropsychologist.
PREVENTION
To prevent or lessen the risk for serious head injuries you may:
- Avoid Drinking Alcohol especially when you are about to Drive
- Use Seat Belts and Airbags when in a Vehicle
- Use of Helmets when Riding a Bike, Skateboard, or Motorcycle
To prevent fall at home you may:
- Install handrails in bathrooms
- Put a nonslip mat in the bathtub or shower
- Remove area rugs
- Install handrails on both sides of staircases
- Improve lighting in the home
- Keep stairs and floors clear of clutter
- Get regular vision checkups
- Get regular exercise