There is so much misinformation about brain injury floating around on the internet. Research in this field is progressing every day, and we are constantly disproving old theories. It can be difficult to keep up with the latest research, so read on to dispel some of the most common myths regarding brain injury.
1. You can always see brain injury on CT and MRI scans
Scans are looking for brain bleeds, skull fractures, and other acute trauma. Not all brain injuries will appear on these scans. A clear CT or MRI does not eliminate the possibility that you have a brain injury.
2. Concussions are not serious
Concussion is a form of mild traumatic brain injury (TBI). “Getting your bell rung” or “seeing stars” are never things to ignore – they are signs of brain injury. Concussions are described as “mild” brain injury because they not usually life-threatening, but this does not mean they are not serious. While many people will fully recover after two weeks, some patients will have lifelong symptoms following a concussion.
3. Two years after brain injury, no further recovery can be made
Many people assert that recovery from brain injury is only possible within the first year or two. Following the first nine months of recovery, time is no longer an indicator of recovery. What matters after this point is finding the proper therapies for your symptoms.
4. Individuals with brain injury don’t think about suicide
Nearly 1 in 5 brain injury survivors admits to suicidal ideation, plans, or attempts in the five-year period following injury. In the general population, that statistic goes down to 1 in 25. Extreme life changes and organic changes in the brain after injury can increase the chances of suicide. If you need help, you can call the suicide hotline at 1-800-273-8255.
5. Only athletes get concussions
Concussions are not only a problem for athletes; concussions, like other TBIs, can happen anywhere, at any time, and to anyone. TBI is a common result of motor vehicle accidents, falls, military action or blast exposure, intimate partner violence, and other physical trauma.