According to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention falls are the leading cause of brain injuries. While violent falls are definitely a matter of concern, less dramatic falls should never be overlooked. Whether you suffer an injury from a minor topple or a serious fall, ignoring the signs of a head injury can have life altering consequences.
Symptoms
Although a brain injury from a fall takes place on impact, some symptoms don't appear until the bleeding or swelling has reached a certain degree. However, loosing consciousness, becoming confused or becoming sluggish immediately after falling are all indication of a serious head injury. If you or a friend presents any such symptoms, a trip to the doctor or emergency room is 100% necessary.
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Suffering from a closed head injury can either affect the cells and tissue throughout your brain or it is localized, meaning your brain is only affected in one area. Below, we have listed two of the most common closed head injuries sustained during a fall.
Concussion
A concussion alters the way your entire brain functions. While most individuals recover quickly and fully, a concussion should never be taken lightly. Unfortunately, many believe a concussion only occur if a person loses consciousness after hitting there head. This, however, is not true. There are many symptoms that can indicate a concussion, and loss of consciousness is not a requirement.
Contusion
Bruised brain tissue is referred to as a contusion. Such bruising often occurs when a person's brain slams against their skull. The severity of the contusion will dictate the recovery process. A minor contusion will most likely heal on its own while a major contusion can lead to a number of medical complications. A contusion can only be diagnosed with either a CT scan or an MR scan, which makes visiting your doctor after falling and hitting your head a