To the Editor:
The recent tragic death of Natasha Richardson underscores the need for vigilance after any type of head injury, especially sports-related injuries. I know the thoughts and prayers of nationwide similarly affected by traumatic brain injury go out to her family.
March was designated as Brain Injury Awareness Month and this year’s focus was on sports and concussions. During a radio interview shortly after Richardson’s accident, Mr. Greg O’Shanick, medical director for the Brain Injury Association, highlighted the importance of monitoring after anyone suffers a head injury. Teammates, coaches, family members and acquaintances should observe for any changes that would indicate a need to seek further medical attention. Some danger signs to watch for include: changes in behavior; increased agitation; repetitive speech patterns; vision problems; memory problems and/or a headache of increasing intensity. Dr. O’Shanick also strongly emphasized the use of helmets during any type of sports activity.
Most concussions do not involve any loss of consciousness and you can sustain a concussion even if you do not hit your head directly. An indirect blow elsewhere on the body can transmit an “impulse” force to the head and cause a concussion to the brain. Also, contrary to popular belief, concussions do not typically appear in neuro-imaging studies such as MRI and CAT scans.
Additional information about brain injury-related issues, including the interview with Dr. O’Shanick, may be found on the Brain Injury Association of America’s website, www.biausa.org. Locally, individuals may contact the Area 8 Office of the Brain Injury Association of Ohio at 330-343-9292, ext. 213, ccurtis@biaoh.org or contact the state agency’s Helpline at 1-866-644-6242 or visit www.biaoh.org.
Chris Curtis
Coordinator
Area 8 Office
Brain Injury Association of Ohio
New Philadelphia, OH
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