Traumatic Brain Injury
The National Institute of Health states:
A traumatic brain injury (TBI) refers to a brain injury that is caused by an outside force. TBI can be caused by a forceful bump, blow, or jolt to the head or body or an object entering the brain. Not all blows or jolts to the head result in TBI.
Some types of TBI can cause temporary or short-term problems with brain function, including how a person thinks, understands, moves, communicates, and acts. More serious TBI can lead to severe and permanent disability and even death.
Symptoms of Traumatic Brain Injury
Physical
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Headache
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Convulsions or seizures
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Blurred or double vision
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Unequal pupil size or dilation
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Clear fluids draining from the nose or ears
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Nausea and vomiting
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New neurological problems, (ex. slurred speech, weakness of arms/legs/face, loss of balance)
Cognitive
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Loss of or change in conscious-ness for anywhere from a few seconds to a few hours
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Decreased consciousness (e.g., hard to awaken)
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Confusion or disorientation
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Problems remembering, concentrating, decision-making
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Changes in sleep patterns (e.g., sleeping more, difficulty falling or staying asleep, inability to wake)
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Frustration, irritability
Perception
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Light-headedness, dizziness, vertigo, or loss of balance or coordination
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Blurred vision
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Hearing problems, such as ringing in the ears
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Unexplained bad taste in the mouth
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Sensitivity to light or sound
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Mood changes or swings
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Feeling anxious or depressed
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Fatigue or drowsiness; a lack of energy or motivation
Source: National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke
