Construction workers in Georgia and across the country are at greatest risk of receiving a brain injury while on-the-job. Is it not uncommon for workers on the job site to get hit by a falling object, fall off a ladder or scaffolding or trip over objects and hit their heads. In fact, thousands of people die as a result of traumatic brain injuries every year. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 1.4 million people die, visit the emergency room or check into the hospital due to brain injuries.
The brain sits suspending in fluid within the skull cavity. A brain injury occurs when a sudden bump or jolt to the head causes the soft brain tissue to hit against the hard skull bone. This may cause brain inflammation, bleeding and bruising. As the brain continues to swell within the skull cavity, it can cause increased pressure, which may lead to further damage. It is critical that people get medical attention as soon as possible after experiencing a head injury.
It is also important to be on the lookout for the signs of a brain injury. Mild to moderate injuries may cause nausea and vomiting, persistent headaches that increase in intensity, muscle weakness, tingling in the extremities, dizziness, confusion, loss of memory, fatigue, change in mood or trouble speaking, according to the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. Severe cases of brain injuries include the following:
- Convulsions
- Seizures
- Slurred speech
- Dilation of pupils
- Increased agitation
Early detection and treatment can maximize the chance of successful treatment, which may involve speech therapy, occupational therapy, medical treatment and counseling.