A Guide to Understanding Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)

What is a Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)?

A traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a type of injury that happens when an external force or trauma causes damage to the brain.

This damage can result in a wide range of physical, cognitive, and emotional symptoms that can vary in severity and duration.

There are two types of TBIs: closed and penetrating.

A closed TBI occurs when the brain sustains an impact within the skull, as may happen in a car accident, a fall or a blow to the head during a sports activity.

A penetrating TBI is caused by an object penetrating the skull and coming into contact with the brain, as can occur in gunshot or knife wounds.

The severity of a TBI is classified as mild, moderate, or severe based on the extent of damage to brain tissue and the duration of unconsciousness.

Mild TBIs are also known as concussions. They may cause temporary loss of consciousness and symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, and confusion.

Moderate to severe TBIs may cause long-term cognitive, motor, and sensory impairments that can affect essential functions such as memory, attention, and motor skills, making it challenging for individuals to carry out tasks and daily activities, or follow simple commands.

In severe cases, TBIs can result in persistent vegetative state, coma, or even death. Adults age 65 and older are at greatest risk for being hospitalized and dying from a TBI, most likely from a fall. [1]

There is no complete cure for TBIs. The damage to brain tissue resulting from a TBI can be permanent. In some cases, rehabilitation therapies can help alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life for individuals with a TBI. [2]

What Causes TBI?

TBIs can be caused by various events such as falls, car accidents, sports injuries, and physical assaults that result in a blow to the head, penetrating injury, or violent shaking of the head.

Other less common causes of TBI include electric shock, near drowning, or exposure to an explosive blast.

Falls are the most common cause of TBIs among older adults, while car accidents are the leading cause among young adults.

Sports injuries such as concussions are common in high-contact sports like football and hockey, while traumatic brain injuries related to violence may occur due to physical assault, domestic abuse, or gunshot wounds. [3]

What Are the Symptoms of TBI?

Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) can cause a range of symptoms that can vary depending on the severity and location of the injury.

Symptoms can occur immediately after the injury or may develop over a period of time. Some common type symptoms of TBIs include physical symptoms such as:

• Anxiety
• Balance problems
• Blurred vision
• Confusion
• Depression
• Difficulty concentrating
• Dizziness
• Headaches
• Impulsive behavior
• Irritability
• Light sensitivity
• Memory loss
• Nausea
• Poor judgment
• Speech/language difficulties
• Swallowing difficulty
• Vocal weakness

In severe cases of TBI, an individual may experience seizures, loss of consciousness, and coma.

Other symptoms may include changes in behavior and difficulty with physical coordination.

Symptoms may differ depending on which part of the brain was injured. Injuries to the temporal lobe may affect memory and language, while frontal lobe injuries may affect mood and behavior.

It is important to seek medical attention from your medical provider immediately if any of these symptoms develop after a head injury to allow for proper diagnosis and treatment of a TBI.

How is TBI Diagnosed?

The first step in diagnosing a TBI is a thorough medical evaluation by a neurologist or a physician. The health care provider will ask questions about the symptoms and the events leading up to the injury to determine the severity of the TBI.

They will conduct a physical exam, including a neurological exam, to check for any signs of injury, such as abnormalities in eye movements, muscle strength, and reflexes.

If the physical exam suggests a TBI, the doctor may order imaging tests such as CT scans, Magnetic Resonance Imaging MRI scans which provide detailed images, or an EEG to visualize the brain and detect any physical abnormalities.

Doctors may also perform cognitive tests to evaluate the cognitive and emotional effects of a TBI.

Cognitive tests may include assessments of memory, attention, and problem-solving abilities. These tests can help determine the extent of the injury and the potential long-term effects on cognitive and emotional functioning.

Diagnosing a TBI requires a multidisciplinary approach, with doctors, neuropsychologists, and rehabilitation specialists working together to develop a comprehensive treatment plan.

Early diagnosis is important for managing the symptoms and preventing long-term complications of a TBI.

This is particularly applicable to traumatic brain injuries which often cannot be detected by brain imaging technology.

What Treatments Are Available for TBI?

Treatment for TBI depends on the severity of the injury. The primary goal of treatment is to reduce the risk of long-term disability and improve quality of life.

Treatment may include physical therapy, medications, counseling, and surgical intervention.

Rehabilitation programs can help individuals with TBI regain lost skills and adjust to their new lifestyle.

With proper care and support, many individuals affected by TBI can reclaim their lives and reach their full potential.

What are the Long-Term Effects of TBI?

Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) can have long-term effects on an individual’s physical, cognitive, and emotional functioning, and the effects can vary from person to person.

Long-term effects of TBIs can include chronic headaches, dizziness, and fatigue, and changes in sleep patterns. TBIs can also affect motor skills, making it challenging to carry out everyday activities such as walking and driving.

Individuals who have experienced a TBI may be at increased risk of developing neurodegenerative disorders such as Parkinson’s disease and dementia later in life.

The long-term effects of a TBI can have a significant impact on an individual’s life, including their ability to work, maintain relationships, and engage in social activities.

Ongoing medical care and therapy can help manage symptoms and improve overall quality of life for individuals with a TBI.

Support from family members, caregivers, and support groups can also help individuals cope with the emotional and physical challenges associated with TBIs.

Understanding the potential long-term effects of a TBI can help individuals and families prepare for and manage these effects and take necessary precautions to prevent additional injury.

How Can You Minimize the Risk of a TBI?

There are many ways that you can minimize risk factors for TBI, and taking proactive steps to prevent TBIs is essential for maintaining brain health.

One of the most effective ways to prevent TBIs is to wear protective headgear when engaging in high-risk activities such as sports, recreational activities, construction work, and riding motorcycles or bicycles.

Other Ways to Reduce the Risk of a Head Injury:

• Ensure that helmets fit correctly, are in good condition and meet safety standards.
• Avoid driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
• Wearing seat belts while driving a car and making sure children are secure in booster seats.
• Avoid distracted driving and always remain focused on the road.
• Don’t text, use mobile phones, eat, or do other activities that distract your attention when driving.
• Creating a safe environment in your home can help prevent falls, which are the leading cause of TBIs among older adults.
• Install nonslip mats in the bathroom.
• Safeguard stairs with sturdy banisters and adequate lighting
• Hold onto railings when climbing stairs and use child safety gates.
• If prone to seizures, take prescribed anti-seizure medication religiously.