Brain Injuries

What causes brain injuries?

Brain injuries are the result of a traumatic incident that disrupted your brain within your skull. The two most common causes of brain injuries are direct blows to the head and whiplash injuries. With whiplash, a rapid back-and-forth movement of the head — like the kind that occurs during a car crash — moves your brain in your skull. 

Both direct blows to the head and whiplash-related traumatic brain injuries can be caused by:

• Falls
• Car accidents
• Violence
• Sports collisions

These types of injuries are also common in active-duty military members who survive an explosive blast. 

Whatever caused your brain injury, it’s important that you seek care right away to protect your brain’s functionality. 

Will a brain injury affect my brain long-term?

Traumatic brain injuries can lead to bleeding, tearing, and swelling. Left untreated, these can cause long-term problems with your brain. 

That’s because your skull is precisely shaped to cradle your brain. It doesn’t have much excess space, so any swelling puts pressure on that specific part of your brain. Similarly, intracranial hemorrhage, or bleeding in your skull, puts excess pressure on your brain because there is no room for clotting blood. 

Short-term, swelling and bleeding can lead to:

• Dizziness
• Unconsciousness
• Fatigue
• Nausea
• Light or sound sensitivity
• Memory problems
• Mood changes
• Loss of coordination
• Trouble speaking

If you notice any of these symptoms after a head injury, seek care right away. Quick action alleviates the pressure on your brain, saving you from long-term function loss. Left untreated, bleeding and swelling can lead to brain death. 

How are brain injuries treated?

If bleeding or swelling is putting excess pressure on your brain, your Birmingham Neurosurgery & Spine Group surgeon performs surgery to alleviate it. With 60 years of experience between them, the team of board-certified surgeons is ready to deliver the precise procedure you need. 

In many cases, that means performing a hematoma or removing the clotted blood from within your skull. They can also create a hole in your skull to relieve pressure on a targeted area. 

Their expert team is ready to act fast to protect your brain’s ability to work its best long term. For dedicated care after suffering a brain injury, call Birmingham Neurosurgery & Spine Group to schedule your appointment today.