March is Brain Injury Awareness Month. As neurologists, we see firsthand how quickly a normal day can change because of a head injury.
What many people do not realize is this: most brain injuries are preventable.
Falls, sports collisions, car crashes, and even icy sidewalks account for thousands of injuries each year.
Many of them happen during everyday activities. The good news is that small habits can make a big difference.
Let’s talk about what you can do to protect yourself and your loved ones.
The Most Common Causes of Brain Injury
Traumatic brain injuries, or TBIs, most often happen because of:
- Falls
- Motor vehicle crashes
- Sports and recreational activities
- Workplace accidents
In Minnesota, winter conditions increase fall risk. Ice, snow, and poor visibility create hazards that many people underestimate.
However, risk is not limited to winter. Concussions in youth sports, from falls at home, and distracted driving are year-round concerns.
Understanding risk is the first step. Prevention is the second.
Daily Habits That Protect Your Brain
1. Prevent Falls at Home
Falls are the leading cause of brain injury, especially in older adults.
You can reduce risk by:
- Removing loose rugs and clutter
- Installing grab bars in bathrooms
- Using non-slip mats in tubs and showers
- Improving lighting in stairways and hallways
- Wearing supportive, non-slip footwear indoors and outdoors
If you care for an aging parent, review their medications with their primary care provider. Some medications increase dizziness and fall risk.
2. Wear Helmets Every Time
Helmets significantly reduce the risk of severe head injury.
Wear a properly fitted helmet when:
- Biking
- Skiing or snowboarding
- Skateboarding
- Riding scooters
- Playing contact sports
Children learn by watching adults. If you wear a helmet, they are more likely to wear one too.
3. Take Concussions Seriously
A concussion is a form of brain injury. It does not require loss of consciousness.
Watch for symptoms like:
- Headache
- Confusion
- Nausea
- Sensitivity to light
- Balance problems
- Memory gaps
Never return to play after a head injury without medical clearance. Symptoms can worsen with repeated impacts.
4. Drive Safely and Avoid Distractions
Motor vehicle crashes remain a major cause of traumatic brain injury.
Protect yourself by:
- Wearing a seatbelt every time
- Avoiding texting while driving
- Not driving while fatigued
- Never driving under the influence
These habits protect not only your brain, but everyone on the road.
5. Protect Children and Teens
Children are especially vulnerable to brain injury.
Help protect them by:
- Using age-appropriate car seats and booster seats
- Supervising play on playground equipment
- Teaching safe sports techniques
- Encouraging honest reporting of concussion symptoms
Creating a culture of safety matters more than winning a game.
When to Seek Medical Care
Seek immediate medical care if someone experiences:
- Loss of consciousness
- Severe or worsening headache
- Repeated vomiting
- Slurred speech
- Weakness on one side of the body
- Unusual behavior or confusion
Even if symptoms seem mild, it is better to be evaluated.
During Brain Injury Awareness Month, remember this: prevention is powerful. But early evaluation is just as important.
Brain Injury Prevention Starts Today
Protecting your brain does not require dramatic changes. It requires consistent habits.
Check your home for fall risks.
Wear a helmet.
Model safe behavior.
Pay attention to symptoms.
If you or someone you love has experienced a head injury and you have concerns, we are here to help.
No referral needed.
You don’t need a referral to schedule care at any of our five Minneapolis Clinic of Neurology locations.👉 https://minneapolisclinic.com/appointments
