What is a brain injury?

Any head trauma that causes damage to the brain is classified as a brain injury, although many people use the broader term of head injury. A brain injury may or may not include injury to other parts of the head and skull. A closed injury means that there is no damage to the skull, while an open or penetrating injury means an object broke through the skull and entered the brain.

​

Concussion

Concussions are the most common type of brain injury, and can range from mild to severe. Concussions occur when the brain shifts significantly inside the skull, making them a closed injury. Symptoms of concussion vary, but may include:

• Headache, intensified with exposure to light and noise

• Nausea and vomiting

• Confusion

• Memory loss

• Drowsiness

• Unequal pupil size

​

What causes a brain injury?

A brain injury is often caused by direct force to the head. Car and motorcycle accidents are some of the leading causes of brain injuries in the United States, due to the speed and force involved. You may be injured when your head comes into contact with the windshield, dashboard, or headrest. Any significant blow to the skull should result in a trip to the doctor.

​

How is a brain injury diagnosed?

A neurologist will first ask you questions about your accident and how you were injured. A physical test will be performed to check your reflexes and coordination. Generally, an MRI will be performed to give the doctor a better indication of how severely you are injured, and to rule out severe complications like hemorrhage.

​

How do you treat a brain injury?

Brain injury treatment varies widely depending on the severity of the injury.In instances of mild concussion, no treatment is required beyond pain management, monitoring for complications, and avoiding heavy activity for a few days. In cases of a more serious or open brain injury, it may be necessary to discuss surgical options.

​

What is the recovery time for a brain injury?

Your recovery time depends on a number of factors, including your age, the severity of your fracture, and your health.In most cases of mild brain injury, you should be able to return to your level of normal activity in about two weeks. If symptoms do not improve as expected, it’s important to return to the doctor as soon as possible.

​

If you’ve been in a car accident in New Jersey and need treatment for a brain injury, please call us at 866-609-4448 or fill out our quick contact form for an appointment.

​

Whether your injury is a small one, or is more serious, the staff at Sall Myers Medical Associates has your needs covered.