BRAIN INJURY EDUCATION

Brain injuries and concussions can cause a variety of short-term and long-term risks. Some of the immediate risks include loss of consciousness, confusion, headache, nausea, and dizziness. In the long-term, brain injuries and concussions can lead to a range of problems, including memory loss, difficulty thinking and concentrating, depression, and an increased risk of developing conditions such as Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease. Additionally, people who have had multiple concussions may be at risk of developing chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), a progressive degenerative disease of the brain. 

Yes, there can be a structural injury component to brain injuries, such as concussions. A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury that occurs when the brain is shaken or jostled inside the skull. This can cause a variety of structural changes in the brain, including damage to blood vessels, nerve fibers, and brain cells. Additionally, a concussion can cause bleeding in the brain, which can lead to swelling and increased pressure inside the skull. This can result in structural damage to the brain, which can have long-term effects on cognitive function and overall brain health. 

A functional injury refers to changes in the way the brain works, rather than physical damage to the brain tissue. Functional injuries can occur as a result of a concussion, or any other traumatic brain injury.

Examples of functional injuries include difficulty with memory, attention, and concentration, changes in mood and behavior, and problems with coordination and balance. These functional changes can be caused by damage to the neural pathways and connections in the brain, which can disrupt the normal functioning of the brain.

Functional injuries are often harder to diagnose than structural injuries because they don't show up in imaging tests such as CT scans or MRIs. They are typically diagnosed through neuropsychological assessment and clinical observation.