|2009-09-01|  Question: After reading about Natasha Richardson and her skiing accident, I cannot help but wonder, what can I do to prevent a brain injury? It sounds as if there may not be any visible symptoms even when someone is gravely injured.

Answer: Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) is the number one cause of both death and disability in children and young adults. Approximately 5.3 million Americans are currently disabled as a result of a brain injury. In the United States, one person suffers from a traumatic brain injury every 21 seconds. Motor vehicle accidents and sports related injuries contribute to a large incidence of TBI. Falls are the leading cause of brain injuries among the elderly. Approximately one-third to one-half of adult traumatic brain injury victims were intoxicated at the time of the incident, which increases the incidence of death and makes recovery more difficult. A TBI is more likely to happen at night and over 51% of incidents resulting in brain injury occur on the weekend. Men are three times more likely than women to suffer from a TBI.

What can you do to lessen the likelihood of a brain injury?
• Never drink and drive.
• Always observe and obey traffic safety signs, signals and the speed limit.
• Wear a helmet and safety gear when participating in sports activities.
• Wear your seat belt.
• Minimize tripping hazards in your home.
• Abide by safety rules when participating in activities.
• Make sure your home is well lit.
• Use a bath or shower mat to avoid tripping on wet surfaces.
• Exercise to build strength and mobility. Speak with your health care provider to discuss an appropriate exercise regime.
• Have your vision checked as recommended.
• Some medications may contribute to dizziness. Discuss this with your physician.

If a person is knocked unconscious in a fall or accident, he or she should be taken to a hospital right away. Any delay could be life-threatening. However, even if the injured person does not lose consciousness, a blow to the head can have serious
medical consequences. The possibility of a TBI cannot be taken lightly. Symptoms can be delayed. Always err on the side of caution.

Michael K. Landi, MD, FACS
Chief of Neurosurgery
Kenmore Mercy Hospital