FORT LEE, Va. (May 19, 2016) -- As rainy spring weather transitions to hot and sunny summer days, many will increase their time outdoors to enjoy everything from camping and boating to biking and sports.
One of the downsides of this trend is the greater risk for injury if individuals overlook safety guidelines or forget to wear protective gear. It is important to always keep safety in mind and take steps to prevent brain injuries -- one of the most common and potentially life-threatening traumas among active individuals.
A traumatic brain injury occurs when "an individual sustains a serious bump, blow or jolt to the head or a penetrating wound that disrupts the normal functioning of the brain," according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. It can vary from mild to moderate or severe. Common symptoms may include headache, confusion, dizziness or nausea.
According to the Brain Injury Association of America, 2.4 million people sustain a TBI every year across our nation. Most are able to quickly resume their daily lives, however, at least 125,000 annually are permanently disabled by this type of injury.
Brain traumas are serious and more common than most imagine. It can be seen on the battlefield, football field, playground and even in one's home. TBI awareness is becoming more prevalent in the media with the NFL and military alike.
As men and women in the armed services return home and reintegrate with family, the once misunderstood and misdiagnosed symptoms of TBI are becoming increasingly familiar through research and greater publicity.
Brain injury awareness should be a yearlong commitment to ensure individuals protect themselves and others on the job and off-duty, and immediate medical examination steps are taken anytime someone experiences a head trauma.
Remember to use your head the right way while enjoying outdoor activities with family and friends. Wear a helmet when riding a bike and seatbelts in a car. Seek early medical attention for head traumas.
If you or someone you know may have sustained a head concussion, consult a health care professional. Be aware of the symptoms and pursue follow-up treatment as needed.
For Kenner Army Health Clinic beneficiaries, initial evaluation can be requested through the primary care provider. The primary care team will work together to evaluate immediate needs and, if necessary, refer individuals to a network provider or another military treatment facility.
For further information on concussions or traumatic brain injuries, visit www.cdc.gov, www.dvbic.org or www.biausa.org.
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