Traumatic Brain Injuries

A traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a disruption in the normal function of the brain caused by a bump, blow, jolt or penetrating injury to the head. The impact can cause the brain to move or twist within the skull, sometimes leading to bruising, bleeding or other physical damage. 

TBIs range from mild (commonly called concussions) to severe injuries that may result in lasting changes to thinking, memory, movement, behavior or emotions. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential for recovery and to prevent further complications. 

Symptoms of traumatic brain injury 

Symptoms can appear immediately after injury or develop days, weeks or even months later. Some people may not realize their symptoms are related to a brain injury. 

The type and severity of symptoms depend on how serious the injury is. 

Mild traumatic brain injury (concussion) 

Physical symptoms 

• Brief loss of consciousness (seconds to minutes) or feeling dazed 
• Headache 
• Nausea or vomiting 
• Fatigue or trouble sleeping 
• Dizziness or balance problems 

Sensory symptoms 

• Blurred vision or ringing in the ears 
• Sensitivity to light or sound 
• Changes in taste or smell 

Cognitive or mood symptoms 

• Memory or concentration problems 
• Irritability, anxiety or depression 

Moderate to severe traumatic brain injury 

Physical symptoms 

• Loss of consciousness lasting several minutes to hours 
• Persistent or worsening headaches 
• Repeated vomiting or nausea 
• Seizures or convulsions 
• Clear fluid draining from the ears or nose 
• Loss of coordination, weakness or numbness in limbs 
• Unequal pupil size or bruising around the eyes or ears (a sign of internal bleeding) 

Cognitive and behavioral symptoms 

• Slurred speech 
• Extreme confusion or agitation 
• Difficulty waking up or prolonged unconsciousness (coma) 

If you or someone you know experiences any of these symptoms after a head injury, seek emergency medical care right away. 

What causes traumatic brain injury? 

A TBI can occur when a sudden force causes the brain to collide with the inside of the skull or when an object penetrates brain tissue. 

Common causes include: 

• Falls (especially in older adults and young children) 
• Motor vehicle accidents 
• Sports injuries or recreational accidents 
• Assaults or violence 
• Military or combat-related injuries 

Complications from traumatic brain injury 

Even mild brain injuries can have lasting effects, while moderate or severe TBIs can cause long-term or permanent damage. Possible complications include: 

• Seizures 
• Infection in the brain (if the skull is fractured or tissue is exposed) 
• Fluid buildup or swelling in the brain (hydrocephalus) 
• Damage to blood vessels in the brain 
• Nerve damage affecting facial movement, hearing or vision 
• Cognitive or emotional problems such as memory loss, impulsivity or depression 
• Coma or prolonged unresponsiveness in severe cases 

How traumatic brain injury is diagnosed 

A neurologist or neurosurgeon will evaluate your condition using a combination of physical exams, cognitive assessments and imaging studies. 

Common diagnostic tools include: 

• Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS): Measures alertness and neurological function based on movement, speech and eye response. 
• Imaging tests: 
  • CT scan (computed tomography): Detects bleeding, fractures and swelling. 
  • MRI (magnetic resonance imaging): Provides detailed images of brain tissue to identify bruising, scarring or long-term changes. 

Additional tests may include bloodwork or neuropsychological assessments to evaluate thinking and memory. 

Treatment for traumatic brain injury 

Treatment depends on the severity of the injury and the areas of the brain affected. 

For mild TBIs: 

• Rest and over-the-counter pain relief 
• Avoiding strenuous activity and screen time 
• Close monitoring for any new or worsening symptoms 

For moderate to severe TBIs: 

• Medications to reduce brain swelling, prevent seizures or manage pain 
• Surgery to repair skull fractures, remove blood clots or relieve pressure inside the skull 
• Rehabilitation therapy to regain strength, coordination, speech or cognitive skills 

Rehabilitation may include physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy and psychological support to help patients return to daily activities and improve quality of life. 

Comprehensive brain injury care at Banner Health 

At Banner Health, our specialists provide complete care for people recovering from mild to severe traumatic brain injuries. From advanced neuroimaging to intensive rehabilitation, we’re here to guide your recovery every step of the way. 

If you or a loved one has experienced a head injury, call 911 or visit the nearest emergency department right away. 

Learn more about our neurology and neurosurgery services and find a Banner Health location near you.