Before we begin: Traumatic brain injury or TBI happens when a bump, blow, or other head injury causes damage to the brain. Treatment and outcome depend on how severe.
This tutorial walks you through everything you need to know about traumatic brain injury. We explain it in plain language, step by step, so whether you are a student, a patient, or simply curious, you will come away with a solid understanding.
We cover what it is, why it matters, how it is diagnosed, and what you can do about it. Key facts are called out along the way.
What is traumatic brain injury (TBI)? Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a sudden injury that causes damage to the brain. It may happen when there is a blow, bump, or jolt to the head. This is a closed head injury. A TBI can also happen when an object penetrates the skull. This is a penetrating injury.
Symptoms of a TBI can be mild, moderate, or severe. Concussions are a type of mild TBI. The effects of a concussion can sometimes be serious, but most people completely recover in time. More severe TBI can lead to serious physical and psychological symptoms, coma, and even death.
What causes traumatic brain injury (TBI)? The main causes of TBI depend on the type of head injury:
Some of the common causes of a closed head injury include
Falls. This is the most common cause in adults age 65 and older.
Motor vehicle crashes. This is the most common cause in young adults.
Sports injuries
Being struck by an object
Child abuse. This is the most common cause in children under age 4.
Blast injuries due to explosions
Some of the common causes of a penetrating injury include
Being hit by a bullet or shrapnel
Being hit by a weapon such as a hammer, knife, or baseball bat
A head injury that causes a bone fragment to penetrate the skull
Some accidents such as explosions, natural disasters, or other extreme events can cause both closed and penetrating TBI in the same person.
Who is at risk for traumatic brain injury (TBI)? Certain groups are at higher risk of TBI:
Men are more likely to get a TBI than women. They are also more likely to have serious TBI.
Adults aged 65 and older are at the greatest risk for being hospitalized and dying from a TBI
What are the symptoms of traumatic brain injury (TBI)? The symptoms of TBI depend on the type of injury and how serious the brain damage is.
The symptoms of mild TBI can include:
A brief loss of consciousness in some cases. However, many people with mild TBI remain conscious after the injury.
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 patterns
Behavioral or mood changes
Trouble with memory, concentration, attention, or thinking
If you have a moderate or severe TBI, you may have those same symptoms. You may also have other symptoms such as:
A headache that gets worse or does not go away
Repeated vomiting or nausea
Convulsions or seizures
Not being able to wake up from sleep
Larger than normal pupil (dark center) of one or both eyes. This is called dilation of the pupil.
Slurred speech
Weakness or numbness in the arms and legs
Loss of coordination
Increased confusion, restlessness, or agitation
How is traumatic brain injury (TBI) diagnosed? If you have a head injury or other trauma that may have caused a TBI, you need to get medical care as soon as possible. To make a diagnosis, your health care provider:
Will ask about your symptoms and the details of your injury
Will do a neurologic exam
May do imaging tests, such as a CT scan or MRI
May use a tool such as the Glasgow coma scale to determine how severe the TBI is. This scale measures your ability to open your eyes, speak, and move.
May do neuropsychological tests to check how your brain is functioning
What are the treatments for traumatic brain injury (TBI)? The treatments for TBI depend on many factors, including the size, severity, and location of the brain injury.
For mild TBI, the main treatment is rest. If you have a headache, you can try taking over-the-counter pain relievers. It is important to follow your health care provider’s instructions for complete rest and a gradual return to your normal activities. If you start doing too much too soon, it may take longer to recover. Contact your provider if your symptoms are not getting better or if you have new symptoms.
For moderate to severe TBI, the first thing health care providers will do is stabilize you to prevent further injury. They will manage your blood pressure, check the pressure inside your skull, and make sure that there is enough blood and oxygen getting to your brain.
Once you are stable, the treatments may include:
Surgery to reduce additional damage to your brain, for example to
Remove hematomas (clotted blood)
Get rid of damaged or dead brain tissue
Repair skull fractures
Relieve pressure in the skull
Medicines to treat the symptoms of TBI and to lower some of the risks associated with it, such as
Anti-anxiety medication to lessen feelings of nervousness and fear
Anticoagulants to prevent blood clots
Anticonvulsants to prevent seizures
Antidepressants to treat symptoms of depression and mood instability
Muscle relaxants to reduce muscle spasms
Stimulants to increase alertness and attention
Rehabilitation therapies, which can include therapies for physical, emotional, and cognitive difficulties:
Physical therapy, to build physical strength, coordination, and flexibility
Occupational therapy, to help you learn or relearn how to perform daily tasks, such as getting dressed, cooking, and bathing
Speech therapy, to help you to with speech and other communication skills and treat swallowing disorders
Psychological counseling, to help you learn coping skills, work on relationships, and improve your emotional well-being
Vocational counseling, which focuses on your ability to return to work and deal with workplace challenges
Cognitive therapy, to improve your memory, attention, perception, learning, planning, and judgment
Some people with TBI may have permanent disabilities. A TBI can also put you at risk for other health problems such as anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Treating these problems can improve your quality of life.
Can traumatic brain injury (TBI) be prevented? There are steps you can take to prevent head injuries and TBIs:
Always wear your seatbelt and use car seats and booster seats for children
Never drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol
Wear a properly fitting helmet when riding a bicycle, skateboarding, and playing sports like hockey and football
Prevent falls by
Making your house safer. For example, you can install railings on the stairs and grab bars in the tub, get rid of tripping hazards, and use window guards and stair safety gates for young children.
Improving your balance and strength with regular physical activity
Also known as: Acquired brain injury, TBI.
Related topics: TBI.
Categories: Brain and Nerves, Injuries and Wounds.
Source: National Institutes of Health — National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke.
Key Takeaways
Understanding traumatic brain injury is an important part of taking charge of your health. Here is what to remember:
- Know the signs — Recognizing early symptoms can lead to earlier diagnosis and better outcomes.
- Talk to your provider — If you have concerns or a family history of this condition, bring it up at your next checkup.
- Stay informed — Medical knowledge evolves. Keep learning and asking questions.
- You are not alone — Many people deal with this condition. Support groups and educational resources can help.