Protecting the Brain at Every Age
By: Karen Odell-Barber, Founder of Neurologics
As we observe Brain Injury Awareness Month this March, it’s a crucial time to reflect on the many ways brain injuries can impact individuals at every stage of life. From childhood to adulthood, the brain is vulnerable to injury in various forms, often with lasting effects. At Neurologics, we are acutely aware of this and dedicated to advancing brain health through technology and education, emphasizing the importance of prevention, early detection and treatment.
In children, brain injuries can result from falls, car accidents, sports or abuse. Even mild concussions can interfere with cognitive development and emotional regulation. Because children may not always express their symptoms, these injuries are often underreported or misdiagnosed.
Teens are particularly susceptible to brain injuries, especially due to sports and recreational activities. Concussions, often from football, soccer, or skateboarding, can disrupt brain development and affect decision-making and behavior.
In adults, brain injuries can occur from falls, car accidents, or workplace incidents. Additionally, older adults are at greater risk for falls, and conditions like chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) are becoming more prevalent among athletes and military personnel who experience repeated head trauma.
Recognizing the signs of brain injuries is critical for early intervention. Acute symptoms of brain injury may include headaches, nausea, dizziness, confusion, memory problems, or loss of consciousness. Long-term symptoms can manifest as mood swings, depression, sleep disturbances, cognitive difficulties and sensitivity to light or noise.
If you experience any of these symptoms, it's essential to seek medical advice. Early identification and treatment can help mitigate long-term effects.
Advancements in neuroimaging and wearable technologies now allow for earlier detection of brain injuries. For example, we use a proprietary brain health platform that can measure cognitive function, detect subtle brain changes, and monitor recovery progress. These tools are particularly valuable for identifying concussions or TBIs that may not show up in traditional imaging scans. Early diagnosis enables tailored treatment plans that are more likely to improve long-term outcomes.
For moderate to severe injuries, rehabilitation is often necessary. This may include physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and neuropsychological counseling to address cognitive and emotional difficulties. Cognitive rehabilitation focuses on improving memory, attention, and executive functioning, helping individuals regain their independence and quality of life.
Prevention is the most effective way to reduce brain injury risks. In children and adolescents, educating about sports safety, using protective gear, and reinforcing safe behaviors can help reduce injury risks. For athletes, adhering to return-to-play protocols after a concussion is critical.
Brain injuries are more common than many realize, and their effects can be both subtle and profound. This Brain Injury Awareness Month, we encourage everyone to prioritize brain health through awareness, early detection, and prevention. By investing in technologies and treatments that promote brain recovery, we can support individuals in their journey toward healing and a better quality of life.
Please visit Neurologics.com or make an appointment at our new assessment center in Fashion Island for more information on Neuroengineering, Brain Mapping and elite brain optimization.
Listen to the Tackling Brain Health Podcast, now playing on YouTube, Spotify and Apple Music.
Tackling Brain Health explores the cutting-edge realm of brain imaging and optimization. From personal journeys to expert insights, each episode delves into the transformative power of neuroscience, sharing real stories of triumph over mental health challenges and unlocking the full potential of the human mind.