How CT scans and MRIs can
detect head injuries
Hitting your head can be a scary experience. While most bumps and bangs aren’t severe, there is always a chance that they can result in a concussion, cracks to the skull, or bleeding on the brain. As a result, it is important to see a doctor when you have suffered a head injury. They can examine whether or not you have a concussion by checking things like your memory, balance, speech, and coordination, asking about your accident and looking for other symptoms that could be related to it including nausea, dizziness, blurred vision, confusion, sensitivity to light or noise, and memory loss. They can then request additional testing, such as an MRI or CT scan if they are concerned that there could be a serious injury.
What is a concussion?
A concussion is a brain injury where the brain bounces around or twists inside the skull. This creates a chemical change in the brain and can sometimes result in the damaging or stretching of brain cells. Concussions are generally caused by a bump, jolt, or blow to the head that causes the head to move rapidly back and forth such as a car crash, contact sports, or if a person is shaken violently. They account for more than 75% of all traumatic brain injuries and are usually not life-threatening. However, they can temporarily impact your concentration, sensitivity to light and noise, and taste and smell disorders. In addition, multiple concussions have been linked to the development of delayed brain degeneration and may increase the risk of long-term issues.
Using CT and MRI scans for brain imaging
If your doctor has noticed anything to be concerned about, they may initially request a CT scan, especially if you lost consciousness after you hit your head, fell more than three feet, or were in a car accident. A CT scan will take clear images of the brain and can show if there is any type of fracture, internal bleeding, or swelling. They are used to diagnose any forms of acute problems that could be life-threatening and need immediate treatment. CT scans can also be used later to ensure that the injury has healed.
CT scans are unable to show microscopic injuries that can lead to long-term problems or to establish whether or not a patient has experienced a concussion. If this is an area of concern, a doctor may also order an MRI which can create clear images of brain tissue. This can help a doctor rule out any additional injury and may be helpful if your symptoms persist for more than 48 hours after the injury or if they get worse.
Need help?
As you can see, CT scans and MRIs are an efficient and non-invasive way to detect both mild and serious brain injuries and can help doctors fully understand if any further treatment is needed. If your doctor has suggested a CT scan or MRI, please do not hesitate to give us a call to schedule an appointment. Our team will be happy to get you in and out and have your reports in hand within 24 hours.
