Understanding
Your Brain Health
Information and resources to help you navigate traumatic brain injury diagnosis and treatment
What is a Traumatic Brain Injury?
A traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a disruption in normal brain function caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head, or a penetrating head injury. TBIs can range from mild (often called a concussion) to severe, and can have short-term or long-lasting effects on thinking, sensation, language, and emotions.
Common Causes
Falls (especially in older adults and young children)
Motor vehicle accidents and collisions
Sports and recreation injuries
Assaults and physical violence
Blast injuries and combat-related trauma
Workplace accidents
Severity Levels
Mild TBI (Concussion)
Brief loss of consciousness or altered mental state. Symptoms may include headache, confusion, dizziness, and memory problems. Most people recover fully with proper care.
Moderate TBI
Loss of consciousness lasting minutes to hours. May involve physical, cognitive, and behavioral changes that can last months or be permanent.
Severe TBI
Extended loss of consciousness or amnesia. Can result in significant, long-term impairments affecting many aspects of daily life and requiring extensive rehabilitation.
Signs and Symptoms
TBI symptoms can vary widely and may not appear immediately after the injury
Cognitive
- Memory problems
- Difficulty concentrating
- Confusion or disorientation
- Slowed thinking
- Difficulty making decisions
Physical
- Headaches
- Dizziness or balance problems
- Nausea or vomiting
- Vision problems
- Sensitivity to light/noise
Emotional
- Mood swings
- Anxiety or depression
- Irritability
- Emotional outbursts
- Personality changes
Sleep-Related
- Sleeping more than usual
- Difficulty falling asleep
- Drowsiness or fatigue
- Sleep pattern changes
- Insomnia
When to
Seek Help
If you or someone you know has experienced a head injury and is showing any symptoms of TBI, it's important to seek medical attention promptly. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve outcomes.
Emergency Warning Signs
Seek immediate emergency care if you experience:
- Loss of consciousness (even briefly)
- Severe or worsening headache
- Repeated vomiting
- Seizures or convulsions
- Slurred speech or weakness
- Unequal pupil size
- Increasing confusion or agitation
Recovery is Possible
With proper diagnosis, treatment, and support, many people with TBI can make significant improvements and return to meaningful activities. We're here to guide you through every step of your recovery journey.