FAQ – Brain Injury

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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