Traumatic brain injury (TBI) occurs when a sudden trauma causes damage to the brain. TBI can result from a wide variety of accidents, including car accidents, falls, and sports-related injuries. Symptoms of TBI can range from mild to severe, and may include headaches, dizziness, confusion, memory loss, sleep problems, and mood changes. If you or someone you know has suffered a TBI, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. There is no one-size-fits-all treatment for TBI; however, early intervention and rehabilitation are crucial for promoting recovery.
What Is Traumatic Brain Injury?
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) occurs when a sudden trauma causes damage to the brain. The term “traumatic” refers to the fact that the damage is usually caused by an external force such as a blow to the head or a penetrating head injury. TBI can also occur when the head is violently shaken, as can happen in a car accident or fall. In some cases, TBI may be caused by an object striking the head from behind with great force (known as “whiplash”). It is important to note that not all blows or jolts to the head result in TBI; in fact, most do not. However, any time there is concern about potential brain damage after a head injury—even if there are no obvious signs of trauma—it is important to seek medical attention right away just to be safe.
Symptoms of Traumatic Brain Injury.
The symptoms of TBI can range from mild to severe depending on the extent of the damage. Mild forms of TBI are also sometimes called “concussions”; however not all concussions are considered mild—some may actually be quite serious. The most common symptom of concussion is temporary loss of consciousness (not exceeding 30 minutes), which usually happens at the time of impact but can occasionally occur afterwards if there has been delayed swelling inside
What to do if you have a concussion
If you have a concussion, it is important to seek medical attention right away. concussions can be very serious and even life-threatening. Here are some things you should do if you think you or someone else has a concussion:
- Seek medical attention immediately. If you think you or someone else has a concussion, it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible. Concussions can be very serious and even life-threatening.
- Rest. It is important to rest after sustaining a concussion. This will help your body heal and prevent further injury.
- Avoid activities that could make the concussion worse, such as contact sports or vigorous activity. Anything that could jar or shake your head should be avoided until the concussion has healed completely.
- Gradual return to activities. Once your symptoms have subsided, you can start slowly adding back in some of your normal activities. However, it is important to take things slow and not overdo it. If symptoms begin to come back, stop the activity and rest again.
