Things You Must Do to Promote Healing after a Traumatic Brain Injury
If you’re one of the nearly three million Americans who seek treatment for a traumatic brain injury every year, you know that your prognosis for recovery will depend, in significant part, on the steps you take in the immediate aftermath of an accident. You may still face challenges getting a good result, but you improve your odds by making the right decisions:
- Immediately stop whatever you were doing—In the moments following a bump or blow to the head, even if it seems minor, you can substantially increase your risk of serious injury by exposing yourself to another blow to the head, or even a jostling of your brain. Stop any physical activity and become still.
- Seek medical attention—Even if the contact was minimal, it’s always best to get medical care as soon as possible, whether at a hospital ER, an urgent care facility or in the offices of your primary care provider. If the injury is not as serious, the best place to start will often be your doctor, who will have the tools to make an initial assessment and either prescribe a regimen of care or refer you to a specialist, such as a neurologist or physiatrist.
- Get plenty of rest—There’s an old wives’ tale that you shouldn’t sleep immediately after a TBI. It’s not true.
- Avoid any activity that requires any significant effort, as it can put unnecessary strain on your brain
- Stay away from screens of any kind, including television, movies, computers and handheld devices
- Take medications only after consultation with your doctor or specialist
- Avoid alcohol or recreational drugs of any kind until your doctor clears you
- Be willing to take time to return to work
Contact Us to Set Up an Appointment
At Advantage Healthcare Systems, we have extensive experience working successfully with individuals who suffer any type of concussion, TBI or traumatic brain injury. Call us toll-free at 1-877-487-8289 or fill out the form provided below to schedule an assessment. We offer locations across Texas, including Fort Worth, Dallas and San Antonio.