Take Head Injuries Seriously

There are many times during our daily routines during which a head injury can occur, such as riding a bicycle in the park, falling down the steps, working on our jobs, participating in sports, being attacked physically or being involved in an auto crash. Sometimes the brain damage might be moderate, causing a brief loss of breath, eyesight or headache. Sometimes the brain injury may be severe and cause extended effects, such as alterations in mental capabilities, inability to speak, impaired eyesight, seizures, paralysis and comas. Most deadly injuries from car crashes come from brain hemorrhaging.

Call 911 quickly following a head injury if someone is very lethargic, has neck stiffness or terrible headaches, throws up more than one time, becomes unconscious or behaves oddly. Occasionally CPR may be needed when an individual's airway is blocked. If there is a possible spinal injury, then the head and neck should be stabilized by putting the hands on both sides of the head, maintaining spine and head alignment to avoid movement until assistance comes.

Also bleeding can be stopped by placing a clean cloth firmly on top of the wound. If the blood leaks completely through, it is not necessary to change the cloth, but instead, put another cloth on top of the first cloth. On the other hand, if there is a possible skull fracture, you should avoid applying pressure; rather, put a sterile gauze bandage over the open cut. If a person vomits, he or she should be turned a little to avoid choking, but be careful with the spine. An ice pack placed on inflamed areas is good too. If there is a moderate head injury, you might not require treatment, but watch closely and wake the person up every 2 or 3 hours. Don't use Aspirin if you have a headache, but it is alright to use Ibuprofen or Acetaminophen.

For head injury prevention, people should wear the proper safety equipment, including helmets, seat belts, sports gear and hard hats. Bikers should only ride during daylight, should follow all traffic signals and should not ride erratically. Properly designed car seats should be used by children; in addition, children should always be properly supervised and should play in a secure area. Lastly, to reduce the likelihood that head injury will occur, car operators should remain alert and aware, and should not take drugs or drink alcohol when driving.

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About the Author:
Kelvin Lagrasso advises that if you have been considering phoning a Los Angeles injury lawyer or a YY or a personal injury attorney for almost any other type of injury but were worried about the possible cost, typically the first consultation is free of charge and settlements are divided between the law firm and the client so no fees tend to be required of the client.