Brain and Spine injuries represent a major health burden and are one of the major causes of disability and death, said Dr Nikhil Deshmukh, Consultant Neurosurgeon, Ozone Hospitals. Doctor said most brain and spine injuries occur because of road traffic accidents, falls, penetrating injuries such as bullets, or sports-related injuries.

Mild Traumatic Brain injury causes temporary dysfunction of brain cells, resulting in confusion, dizziness, headache, or memory disturbances (amnesia). Moderate or severe Traumatic Brain injuries require emergency care. These can cause bruising, bleeding, skull fractures, or tearing of brain tissues. Treatment for Traumatic Brain injury focuses on minimizing further injury caused by bleeding, inflammation, or reduced oxygen supply to the brain, said Dr Nikhil.

Emergency surgery for Traumatic Brain injury may be required to remove blood clots, said doctor. Spinal injuries result in damage to the spinal cord, disrupting the connection between the brain and the rest of the body. There may be injuries to the vertebrae, joints, intervertebral discs, or ligaments. Additional damage can result from bleeding, inflammation, or fluid accumulation in or around the spinal cord, said Dr Nikhil.

Spinal cord injuries may cause temporary or permanent changes in movement, sensation, and other bodily functions below the level of injury, he added.

Safety precautions to prevent Brain and Spine injuries:

■ Wear a helmet while riding a two-wheeler

■ Use seat belt while driving  four wheeler 

■ Avoid drinking, texting, or using a phone while driving 

- Dr Nikhil Deshmukh, Consultant Neurosurgeon, Ozone Hospitals