Common Signs and Symptoms of a Traumatic Brain Injury

A traumatic brain injury (TBI) is life changing and can be uncertain in the consequences to the brain. A TBI occurs when a sudden trauma causes damage to the brain. TBI can result from a closed head injury or a penetrating head injury. A closed injury occurs when the head suddenly and violently hits an object but the object does not break through the skull. A penetrating injury occurs when an object pierces the skull and enters brain tissue. The effects of the injury vary greatly from person to person based on the area and intensity of the injury. When a traumatic brain injury occurs, the areas of the brain that control body functions are unable to send a message to the body. This interruption in message can change the way a person thinks, acts, feels and moves the body[1].

If you have a family member that has suffered a traumatic brain injury or catastrophic accident and you might be worried about how life will change. You might ask yourself how he/she will feel? What are the physical symptoms? What are the changes in behavior or attitude? To help answer these questions, the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) has provided us with a list of signs and symptoms from mild to moderate or severe[2].

A person with a mild TBI may experience:

• Loss of consciousness for a period of time
• Dazed feeling or “not like himself/herself”
• Headache
• Confusion
• Lightheadedness
• Dizziness
• Blurred vision or tired eyes
• Ringing in the ears
• Bad taste in the mouth
• Fatigue or lethargy
• A change in sleep patters
• Behavioral or mood changes
• Trouble with memory, concentration, attention or thinking

A person with a moderate or severe TBI may show additional symptoms:

• Headache that gets worse or does not go away
• Repeated vomiting or nausea
• Convulsions or seizures
• Weakness or numbness in the extremities
• Loss of coordination
• Increased confusion, restlessness or agitation

An individual who has experienced a TBI may show signs and symptoms immediately after the injury. The symptoms can also develop days or weeks later; almost unnoticeable at first. It is important for the individual to participate in a full, comprehensive evaluation by medical professionals to determine what needs should be addressed immediately. The medical professional will be able to determine the course of treatments to help alleviate the symptoms.

The trained and experienced staff at NeuLife understands the challenges and uncertainties that are faced with a TBI and tailors programs and services based on clinical needs and personal preferences. The goal is to provide specialized rehabilitation to help the client develop or regain life skills necessary for the most independence possible.