By Stephanie Simons,
Head Pharmacist,
Lindo’s Pharmacy in Devonshire
The brain is the most important and complex organ in the body. It regulates and controls every process and function, from breathing and vision, to our thoughts, emotions and memories. So, what happens when this vital organ is damaged?
March is Brain Injury Awareness Month, a campaign which aims to help the general public bridge the gaps between our knowledge of this issue and the reality for those with brain injuries and their friends and family. While we all have some understanding of common conditions like a concussion, the majority of us know little about the long-term physical, emotional, behavioural, and cognitive effects people with brain injuries are battling every day. It’s therefore important that the wider public becomes more aware of this issue so we can better understand and support those around us who are impacted.
Minor injuries
Smaller brain injuries are often referred to as ‘mild’ or ‘minor’ traumatic brain injuries (mTBI). A common example is concussion, which refers to the brain shaking inside the skull resulting in mild damage. Usually occurring due to a bang to the head from a fall or vigorous sport, symptoms of concussion include a brief period of unconsciousness, nausea, or dizziness. These incidents make up approximately 95% of all brain injuries.
It’s important to remember many concussions or similar injuries do not result in unconsciousness, so look out for other symptoms too. If you are concerned you may have suffered a minor injury, speak to your pharmacist or GP straight away to assess your symptoms, and ascertain whether further medical assistance is needed. You should also make sure you’re not alone for 48 hours following the injury in case symptoms escalate.
Traumatic brain injuries
Resulting from external causes such as car accidents, viruses or physical assault, or internal health conditions like stroke, encephalitis or tumours – traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) incur more significant damage.
Strokes are a widespread issue in the US: someone has a stroke every 40 seconds – that’s more than 795,000 people a year. Stroke occurs when the blood supply to the brain’s network of blood vessels is disrupted. In an ischemic stroke, a blood clot blocks the blood flow, while a haemorrhagic stroke involves a leak of blood in the brain due to weakened blood vessels. Both starve the brain cells of oxygen, leading to serious damage.
Encephalitis, meanwhile, is the term for the inflammation or swelling of the brain. While less common than stroke, it is also life threatening and requires urgent medical attention. The causes of encephalitis are widely unknown, though some cases occur when viruses like herpes simplex (cold sores) or chickenpox spread to the brain.
Every TBI is different and can result in a unique combination of symptoms. Physically, you may experience a loss of sensation in the face, altered sense of smell or taste, dizziness and/or loss of hearing or vision. Many experience cognitive difficulties in attention, concentration or memory, while others may suffer from impaired communication skills such as problems following a conversation.
Seeking help
We can all do more to better understand brain injury and support those affected. Whether it’s for yourself, a family member or friend, or simply to boost your own awareness, your pharmacist is a great place to learn more about brain injury, the symptoms and how to seek support. We can offer advice and information, as well as provide gentle painkillers like Tylenol or Paracetamol, and equip you with first aid essentials like assorted bandages, smelling salts and gauze or a good First Aid Kit (like Curad brand) for all of life’s smaller accidents.
If you suspect concussion or more serious injury, contact your GP or medical professional as soon as possible – or, as for any emergency, call 911 straight away.
Stephanie Simons is the head pharmacist at Lindo’s Pharmacy in Devonshire. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy at Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and has been practicing for over 20 years. She is a registered pharmacist with the Bermuda Pharmacy Council and is a member of the Bermuda Pharmaceutical Association.
