How do brain injuries occur?
- Most brain injuries are the result of an accident or an assault.
- Injury to the brain may also occur any time oxygen to the brain is cut off, such as in a stroke, or because of infection.
- A closed brain injury occurs when the head hits another surface or is seriously jarred.
- An open brain injury occurs when an object penetrates the brain.
What does a brain injury affect?
- The effects of a brain injury vary enormously depending on the area and extent of damage.
- A person with a brain injury may experience paralysis; seizures; headaches; or difficulty speaking, hearing, or seeing.
- A brain injury often results in long- or short-term memory loss
- The person may have difficulty learning, concentrating, comprehending , planning or thinking quickly.
- The person may experience mood swings, depression, anger, excessive emotional displays, or changes in personality.
Will a person with a brain injury recover?
- There is hope for the best possible recovery with treatment and support.
- More people are surviving brain injuries due to advances in medical technology and understanding.
- Medication, surgery and rehabilitation can greatly decrease the results of the injury.
As the friend or family of a person with a brain injury, how can I help?
- Learn as much as you can about the person’s injuries. Discuss questions and concerns with medical personnel.
- Ask physical, occupational, speech or other therapists what you can do to help.
- Take care of yourself! Eat well, get enough rest, accept help, talk to trusted friends or a professional counselor.
Where to find help:
- ShelterCare’s Uhlhorn Program: 541-345-4244
- The Oregon Brain Injury Resource Network, 1-800-544-5243 or 503-585-0855
- The Brain Injury Association of Oregon (BIAO), 503-585-0855;
http://www.biaoregon.org/
We can all help prevent head injuries by taking simple safety precautions!
- Wear a helmet when cycling, skateboarding, snowboarding, etc.
- Always use your seat belt.
- Don’t drink and drive or when taking certain medications
- Don’t ride with someone who has been drinking.
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