A traumatic brain injury, or TBI, can result from a blow to your head. The damage might be penetrating, like a gunshot wound, or a non-penetrating injury, such as being struck in your head in a vehicle accident. TBIs vary in severity, and while many individuals recover within days, severe injury can result in irreversible brain injury or even death. You should see your Spine Center Atlanta healthcare provider if you have any of the following symptoms:
- Confusion or memory loss.
- Excessive fatigue or difficulty waking up.
- Dilated pupils.
- Extreme irritability or mood swings.
- Loss of consciousness.
- Seizures or convulsions.
- Vomiting and nausea.
- Persistent headache that becomes worse or doesn’t go away.
Who is at risk of having a traumatic brain injury (TBI)?
TBIs may happen to anybody, although men account for roughly 80% of all cases. TBIs are also more likely in adults over the age of 65. People in this age range are more likely to lose their balance, fall, and hit their heads.
Additionally, TBIs can occur in newborns due to falling from a bed or changing table or, in rare cases, abuse. TBIs are more likely among those who work in specific occupations or hobbies, such as athletes (both recreational and professional), workers in the construction industry, military personnel or law enforcement, and the police.
Causes of a traumatic brain injury
When you sustain a violent, severe blow to the head, your brain may modify its chemical and energy utilization to adapt to the injury. Headaches, light or sound sensitivity, and disorientation might occur from these alterations. These brief changes do not permanently harm the brain in mild TBIs.
However, these alterations might continue longer with more serious injuries and cause brain cell destruction. These impacts might cause the brain inside the skull to enlarge and expand. Also, the swelling may cause more brain damage. Other causes include the following:
- Domestic violence, child abuse, assaults, and shaken baby syndrome.
- Gunshot wounds, including suicide attempts.
- Accidents involving motor vehicles.
- Injuries from sports, recreation, job, or military service.
The prognosis for those with traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
Recovery from TBIs is highly individualized. It depends on the degree, cause, and kind of injury. Those with mild TBIs will likely recover and return to pre-injury functioning within a few months.
Some individuals with minor TBIs have few concerns and never seek therapy. Moderate to severe TBIs might cause more serious difficulties with changes to their thinking and behavior. Also, people with severe TBIs can have long-term changes.
Your healthcare professional should examine any head or brain injuries even if you don’t believe the impact was severe. TBIs can cause immediate problems; however, it is possible to suffer minor brain damage and be unaware of it. Knowing what symptoms to look for will help you obtain the medical attention you require.
Severe TBIs can have long-term physical, behavioral, and mental health consequences. Your provider can link you and your family to services to help you recover. Also, TBI might make you feel nervous or sad, although therapy and medications can assist. Call Spine Center Atlanta to schedule your meeting today to determine which traumatic brain injury therapies suit you.
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