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Head Injuries and Diving
RESEARCH, EDUCATION & MEDICINE
EXPERT OPINIONS
64
|
WINTER 2017
By Jim Chimiak, M.D.
T
raumatic brain injury (TBI) occurs
when an external force causes the brain
to move violently within and collide
with the skull. This leads to functional
problems of varying degrees and
durations. Doctors categorize TBI as
mild, moderate or severe depending on the alteration in
awareness, duration of loss of consciousness, extent of
amnesia and examination findings.
Most TBIs result frommotor vehicle, sports and combat
injuries. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
(CDC) report that approximately 1.7 million people sustain
a TBI each year in the U.S., but as many as 50 percent of
these injuries may go unreported. These injuries contribute
significantly to deaths and permanent disabilities. About
300,000 combat veterans have suffered TBIs.
Mild TBIs with symptoms that last hours to days
are commonly called concussions. Concussions are
associated with a temporary loss of awareness or
consciousness and an inability to recollect events
(amnesia) in the narrow window preceding and/or
following the injury. Any person who reports being
dazed or disoriented after a blow to the head should be
considered to have had a concussion.
Symptoms usually resolve with rest and time, but
even mild injuries can have delayed and/or persistent
symptoms; this is known as postconcussion syndrome.
Problems thinking, diminished energy or agility and
difficulty concentrating or retaining new information
may linger for days or weeks. Other symptoms may
include nausea, vomiting, headache, dizziness, vision
disturbances and problems with balance, mood and
sleep. The likelihood of chronic problems is higher
when the initial trauma is more severe.
Evidence shows that even mild TBI can have more
impact on people’s health than previously thought. A
period of physical and mental rest is important after
the injury to avoid further harm and facilitate symptom
resolution. Recovery following repeated concussions is
often slower.
Symptoms of a head injury usually resolve with rest and time, but even
mild injuries can have delayed and/or persistent symptoms such as
difficulty thinking, diminished energy, trouble sleeping and memory or
concentration problems. Such symptoms are incompatible with safe diving.
PHOTO CREDIT
STEPHEN FRINK