Bust These Brain Injury Myths
A traumatic brain injury (TBI) can occur when the head hits an object, or a moving object strikes the head. There are three types of TBI: mild, moderate, and severe. The severity of the injury affects how the brain functions, leading to symptoms like headaches, changes in alertness, memory loss, and difficulty thinking. Moderate to severe TBIs can even result in lifelong complications (MedlinePlus.gov). However, TBIs are often misunderstood, surrounded by myths that create confusion, delay treatment, or prevent adequate support for those affected. It’s time to set the record straight and debunk these misconceptions. By doing so, we can raise awareness and ensure these myths are left behind for good!
Myth #1: You Have to Lose Consciousness to Have a Brain Injury.
One of the most common misconceptions is that a brain injury only occurs if someone loses consciousness. In reality, many brain injuries, especially concussions, do not involve loss of consciousness. According to MedlinePlus.gov, “Most people never pass out. They may describe seeing all white, all black, or stars. A person can also have a mild TBI and not realize it.” Concussions are often considered “invisible injuries” because symptoms can be delayed. These symptoms may include changes in alertness, confusion, seizures, muscle weakness, unequal pupil size, unusual eye movements, vomiting, balance issues, or even a coma. These signs can appear hours or days after the injury, making it crucial to monitor any changes, even after a seemingly minor head injury.
Myth #2: Brain Injuries Only Happen to Athletes in Major Accidents.
While athletes in contact sports are at a higher risk for brain injuries, they’re not the only ones affected. TBIs can happen to anyone in everyday situations. In fact, falls are the leading cause of TBIs, especially among children and older adults, accounting for nearly half of TBI-related hospitalizations, according to the CDC. Car accidents, workplace injuries, and even simple mishaps at home can lead to brain injury.
The takeaway? Brain injuries are not limited to high-risk activities like sports. It’s essential for everyone, regardless of age or occupation, to be mindful of their safety to reduce the risk of TBI.
Myth #3: Once You Have a Brain Injury, There Is No Full Recovery.
While brain injuries can have lasting effects, many people make significant recoveries with the right treatment and rehabilitation. Thanks to advances in neuroscience, the brain’s ability to adapt, known as neuroplasticity, allows it to reroute functions around damaged areas. Although dead neurons cannot regenerate, surviving cells can compensate for the loss (UCHealth.com). Rehabilitation therapies can help speed up recovery, and the type of treatment varies depending on the injury and the individual. A combination of speech and language therapies, physical therapy, occupational therapy, psychological counseling, and cognitive therapy can restore function and offer coping mechanisms. No two brain injuries are the same, and everyone’s recovery journey is unique.
Myth #4: Children Recover from Brain Injuries More Easily Than Adults.
It’s a common belief that children recover faster from brain injuries because their brains are more resilient. However, this isn’t entirely true. While children may seem to recover quickly, their developing brains are more vulnerable to long-term effects. According to Biav.net, “A brain injury can have a more devastating impact on a child than an injury of the same severity on a mature adult.” Injuries during critical developmental periods can disrupt learning, behavior, and overall growth. Brain injuries can interfere with a child’s ability to acquire new skills, and problems may not become apparent until years later. Children with TBIs often require ongoing care and monitoring to ensure they receive the proper support as they grow.
Brain injuries affect millions of people every year, and debunking these myths is essential for better prevention, care, and recovery. TBIs can happen in various ways and don’t always present immediate symptoms, and with the right treatments, full recovery is possible. By staying informed and spreading awareness, we can put these myths to rest once and for all.
Written by Sean Cain, M.Ed, M.A.T.
SC Department of Disabilities and Special Needs