March is Brain Injury Awareness Month — a time to shine a light on a condition that affects millions of Americans each year. Brain injuries can happen in an instant, but their effects can last a lifetime.
Here in the High Desert and Inland Empire, we see firsthand how brain injuries impact families, student athletes, veterans, older adults, and working professionals. At Sol Radiology, we’re committed to helping our community better understand brain injuries, recognize warning signs, and access timely imaging when it matters most.
Because when it comes to the brain, clarity is everything.
What Is a Brain Injury?
A brain injury occurs when the brain is damaged by a sudden trauma or internal event. The most common type is a traumatic brain injury (TBI) — caused by a blow, bump, or jolt to the head.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), TBIs contribute to thousands of deaths and hospitalizations each year in the United States.
Brain injuries can range from mild (such as a concussion) to severe and life-threatening.
Common Causes of Brain Injury
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Falls (especially in older adults)
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Car accidents
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Sports injuries
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Workplace accidents
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Physical assaults
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Explosive injuries (common among veterans)
Non-traumatic brain injuries can also occur due to:
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Stroke
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Lack of oxygen
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Tumors
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Infections
Recognizing the Signs of a Brain Injury
Symptoms can appear immediately — or develop hours to days later.
Physical Symptoms
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Headache
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Nausea or vomiting
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Dizziness
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Blurred vision
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Sensitivity to light or sound
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Loss of consciousness
Cognitive & Emotional Symptoms
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Confusion
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Memory problems
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Mood changes
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Difficulty concentrating
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Slurred speech
The Brain Injury Association of America emphasizes that even “mild” concussions should be taken seriously. If symptoms worsen or new symptoms appear, medical attention is critical.
Why Imaging Matters After a Head Injury
Not all head injuries require imaging, but when doctors suspect bleeding, swelling, or structural damage, radiology plays a vital role.
CT Scan: Fast Answers in Emergencies
A CT scan (computed tomography) uses X-rays to create detailed cross-sectional images of the brain. It is often the first test ordered in emergency situations because it can quickly detect:
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Bleeding in the brain
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Skull fractures
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Swelling
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Large structural abnormalities
The American College of Radiology supports CT as the initial imaging choice in acute head trauma because of its speed and reliability.
MRI: Detailed Brain Imaging
An MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) uses powerful magnets and radio waves to create highly detailed images of brain tissue.
MRI may be recommended when:
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Symptoms persist after a concussion
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Subtle injuries are suspected
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There are concerns about long-term damage
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A more detailed look at soft tissue is needed
MRI does not use radiation and provides greater detail than CT for certain types of brain injury.
What Happens During a Brain Scan?
Many patients feel anxious about imaging, especially after a traumatic event. Here’s what to expect:
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CT scan: Quick (often under 5 minutes), painless, and typically performed while lying still on a table that slides into a scanner.
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MRI: Takes longer (10–15 minutes), requires lying still in a tube-like scanner, and may involve contrast dye in some cases.
At Sol Radiology, our team prioritizes patient comfort and clear communication. As a locally owned, radiologist-led practice serving the Inland Empire, we understand that compassionate care matters just as much as advanced technology.
Brain Injury in Athletes and Students
Concussions are especially common in youth and high school sports. The CDC’s HEADS UP program provides valuable guidance for parents, coaches, and athletes.
Warning signs that require urgent care include:
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Repeated vomiting
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Seizures
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Unequal pupil size
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Increasing confusion
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Worsening headache
Imaging may not be necessary for every concussion — but when symptoms are concerning, fast access to imaging can provide reassurance and direction.
Brain Injury in Older Adults
Falls are the leading cause of brain injury in adults over 65. Even a seemingly minor fall can cause internal bleeding that may not show immediate symptoms.
If an older adult experiences:
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A fall with head impact
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Sudden confusion
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Persistent headache
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Unexplained drowsiness
Medical evaluation and possible imaging are often recommended.
The Importance of Timely Results
When brain injury is suspected, waiting for answers can be stressful. At Sol Radiology, we prioritize fast, reliable turnaround times so referring providers can make informed decisions quickly.
Our advanced imaging technology — supported by AI tools that assist radiologists in detecting subtle findings — enhances accuracy while maintaining the expert oversight of board-certified radiologists.
Because behind every scan is a person, a family, and a future.
Brain Injury Recovery: What Comes Next?
Recovery depends on the severity of the injury.
Mild concussions may improve with:
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Rest
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Reduced screen time
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Gradual return to activities
More serious injuries may require:
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Physical therapy
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Occupational therapy
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Speech therapy
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Neurological follow-up
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Ongoing imaging
Follow-up imaging may be used to monitor healing or evaluate persistent symptoms.
Supporting Brain Health in Our Community
Brain Injury Awareness Month reminds us that prevention, early recognition, and access to care can change outcomes.
Ways to reduce risk:
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Wear seatbelts
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Use helmets during sports and cycling
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Prevent falls in older adults
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Follow return-to-play guidelines after concussion
As part of the High Desert and Inland Empire community, Sol Radiology is committed to education, outreach, and collaborative care with local providers. We believe informed patients are empowered patients.
When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Call 911 or go to the emergency room if someone experiences:
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Loss of consciousness
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Seizures
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Severe or worsening headache
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Weakness on one side of the body
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Difficulty speaking
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Repeated vomiting
This is general information, not medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized care.
Summary: Awareness Saves Lives
Brain Injury Awareness Month is about more than statistics. It’s about neighbors, families, and futures.
Understanding the signs of brain injury — and knowing when imaging is needed — can make a critical difference.
If you or a loved one has experienced a head injury and your provider recommends imaging, Sol Radiology is here to help with compassionate care and advanced diagnostic technology.
👉 Learn more about our services or schedule an appointment by visiting our Patients page or contacting us through our Contact page.
FAQs
1. Does every concussion require a CT or MRI?
Doctors use specific guidelines to determine when imaging is necessary.
2. Is radiation exposure from a CT scan safe?
CT scans use a controlled amount of radiation. In emergency situations, the benefits of detecting serious injury greatly outweigh the risks.
3. How long does a brain MRI take?
At Sol Radiology a non-contrast MRI takes 10-15 minutes.
4. Can symptoms appear days after a head injury?
Yes. Some symptoms develop hours or even days later, which is why monitoring is important.
Disclaimer: The information in this article is provided for general educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. If you are experiencing symptoms or have concerns about a possible brain injury, please consult your healthcare provider or seek medical care promptly.
