By Benjamin A. Klopman, Attorney and David Wolf, Attorney
Published by Child Injury Lawyer Network
Children (as well as adults) suffer injuries known as traumatic brain injury every day. These injuries can range from the very mild to injuries that can cause brain damage or death. Mild traumatic brain injuries are often referred to as concussions. Symptoms or complications following a head injury can be experienced immediately while some can be delayed. It is important for coaches, teachers, caregivers, parents, and medical providers to be aware of the signs and symptoms of a serious traumatic brain injury so that medical care can be obtained as soon as possible. Dr. Beth Slomine is a specialist at the Brain Injury Rehabilitation Program – Kennedy Krieger Institute based in Baltimore, Maryland. Dr. Slomine offered advice on traumatic brain injuries which included the following:
*Use safety precautions which can help reduce the incidence of brain injuries. Safety precautions include the use of seat belts, child safety restraints, helmets during bicycle and sports play when appropriate, and the use of playgrounds with shock absorbing surfaces.
*Following a head injury, watch out for the loss of consciousness, confusion, nausea, dizziness, weakness, lethargy, visual changed, and numbness. If any of these symptoms take place, get immediate medical attention and follow up.
*Keep a close eye on symptoms that can improve over time OR get worse over time.
*Rest is important after a head injury even after evaluation at an emergency room or after a doctor’s visit.
*Avoid a return to at risk activities until the symptoms completely resolve.
Of course, it is difficult for a medical provider to provide advice that fits every situation. If you have concerns about a head injury to a child, get immediate medical attention. See Baltimore Sun Newspaper Article – Traumatic Brain Injuries Can Be Mild or Serious – Advice from an Expert.
Other valuable information and advice is located at the Brain Injury Association of Maryland Web Site.