About Traumatic Brain Injury
Overview
Traumatic brain injury usually results from a violent blow or jolt to the head or body. Sometimes caused when an object penetrates brain tissue and causes traumatic brain injury.
These injuries can result in long-term complications or death.
Symptoms
Traumatic brain injury can have wide-ranging physical and psychological effects. Some signs or symptoms may appear immediately after the traumatic event, while others may appear days or weeks later.
Physical Symptoms
- Loss of consciousness for a few seconds to a few minutes
- No loss of consciousness, but a state of being dazed, confused or disoriented
- Headache
- Nausea or vomiting
- Fatigue or drowsiness
- Problems with speech
- Difficulty sleeping
- Sleeping more than usual
- Dizziness or loss of balance
Sensory Symptoms
- Sensory problems, such as blurred vision, ringing in the ears, a bad taste in the
mouth or changes in the ability to smell - Sensitivity to light or sound
Cognitive or Mental Symptoms
- Memory or concentration problems
- Mood changes or mood swings
- Feeling depressed or anxious
Moderate to Severe Traumatic Brain Injuries
Physical Symptoms
- Loss of consciousness from several minutes to hours
- Persistent headache or headache that worsens
- Repeated vomiting or nausea
- Convulsions or seizures
- Dilation of one or both pupils of the eyes
- Clear fluids draining from the nose or ears
- Inability to awaken from sleep
- Weakness or numbness in fingers and toes
- Loss of coordination
Cognitive or Mental Symptoms
- Profound confusion
- Agitation, combativeness or other unusual behavior
- Slurred speech
- Coma and other disorders of consciousness
Children’s Symptoms
Infants and young children with brain injuries might not be able to communicate headaches, sensory problems, confusion or similar symptoms. In a child with traumatic brain injury, you may see:
- Change in eating or nursing habits
- Unusual or easy irritability
- Persistent crying and inability to be consoled
- Change in ability to pay attention
- Change in sleep habits
- Seizures
- Sad or depressed mood
- Drowsiness
- Loss of interest in favorite toys or activities
When to See a Doctor
Always see your doctor if you or your child has received a blow to the head or body that concerns you or causes behavioral changes. Seek emergency medical care if there are any signs or symptoms of traumatic brain injury following a recent blow or other traumatic injuries to the head.
Make an Appointment Now. Call 786-565-8735.
Make an Appointment Now.
Call 786-565-8735.
Call 786-565-8735.