Head Injuries: When to Seek Help and How to Recover

“I fell and hit my head.”  

“I was rear ended and still feel dazed.”   

“Since I took that hit during the game a few days ago, I don’t feel quite like myself.”  

Does any of this sound familiar? 

The CDC reports that nearly 600 traumatic brain injuries (TBI) or concussion related hospitalizations are reported daily, but this number is likely much higher because the diagnosis is often missed on an initial evaluation or because people may not seek care.  

TBI or concussions are common injuries that often go untreated and can result in a variety of symptoms that can have a profound impact on a person’s life including:  

• Headaches 

• Dizziness 

• Memory issues 

• Concentration issues 

• Fatigue 

• Behavioral changes including depression, anxiety, or difficulty controlling anger 

This can adversely affect day-to-day living, including a person’s performance at school, work, or sports.  
 
Recovering from brain injury or concussion involves working with healthcare professionals to take care of your whole self. Here are three components to achieve optimum recovery: 

Step 1: Targeted Therapies 

• Physical therapy: Rebuilding strength and coordination 

• Vestibular therapy: Addressing dizziness and balance problems 

• Vision therapy: Improving vision changes after TBI or concussion 

• Speech/cognitive therapy: Helping with memory, concentration, and communication 

Step 2: Healthy Lifestyle 

• Exercise: Regular physical activity 

• Nutrition: Eating a healthy diet 

• Sleep hygiene: Getting enough quality sleep 

• Psychological support: Talk therapy and mindfulness to manage stress and emotional well-being 

Step 3: Medicine and supplements 

• Helping with specific symptoms and support brain health and recovery 

Prompt treatment is crucial for recovering from TBI or concussion. Studies show that delays in seeking care reduce the likelihood of a full recovery and increase the risk of long-term complications that can significantly affect quality of life. If you or someone you know experiences a head injury and has any of the symptoms noted in this article, seek medical attention immediately.  

Casa Colina Hospital and Centers for Healthcare’s Physician Specialty Clinics offer coordinated outpatient medical care across a wide range of medical specialties all conveniently located next to Casa Colina’s Outpatient Rehabilitation Center in Pomona. Our physician specialists provide diagnosis, treatment, and care management for a variety of medical conditions including brain injury and concussion. For more Information, call 909/596-7733, ext. 3800.