What are the warning signs?
by Jenna Martin – Beehive Producer, PIC Current Contributor
Courtesy of Patrick Denker
His name is *George and he has just returned home from Iraq after doing two tours of duty in the Marines. Like so many soldiers, George sustained a head injury that has changed his life forever.
I watch George as he attempts to listen to what I am saying while also trying to move his mouse to where he wants it to go. He tells me he can’t remember things the way he used to and has a constant headache.
He misses the George he used to be, the George who could play football with his buddies and keep his family’s finances in check. I watch and I think “how many more of our veterans are coming home with brain injuries?”
The answer, I’m afraid, is astounding. According to the Defense and Veterans Brain Injury Center in an initial report, about 10% of all troops in Iraq, and up to 20% of front line infantry troops, suffer concussions during combat tours. If I’m doing my math correctly here, that equals 320, 0000 veterans currently living with brain injuries!
What does this mean exactly? It can mean: headaches, disturbed sleep, memory loss, behavior issues such as angry outbursts and increased violence, mood swings and the list goes on and on. What it definitely means is our veterans are coming home with very real injuries that require treatment, support and awareness.
Although the brain is a very complicated organ.There is still so much we don’t understand, but there are things we do know. In fact, if you or someone you love has suffered a head injury, such as a concussion, here is some basic information:
What is a concussion?
A concussion occurs when the head hits or is hit by an object. A concussion can also occur when the brain is pushed against the skull with a strong force. In such cases, parts of the brain that control mental function may be damaged. The injured person may become disoriented (confused) and may briefly lose consciousness.
To learn more about brain injuries and other disorders connected with it like Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) go to:
· Defense and Veterans Brain Injury Center
*Individual’s name has been changed to protect privacy
