What does a traumatic brain injury look like?

A traumatic brain injury is different for each person who suffers one. By definition, the brain injury is caused when an external force causes the brain injury and dysfunction. That dysfunction can range from memory loss to sudden deafness or blindness; the symptoms and signs of a traumatic brain injury are vast.

On behalf of Joseph Caprara of CBLAW posted in Brain Injuries on Tuesday, June 2, 2015.

A traumatic brain injury is different for each person who suffers one. By definition, the brain injury is caused when an external force causes the brain injury and dysfunction. That dysfunction can range from memory loss to sudden deafness or blindness; the symptoms and signs of a traumatic brain injury are vast.

With a mild traumatic brain injury, patients may have only a temporary disruption in their abilities. So, memory loss could initially be severe, but those memories may return in a few days or weeks. Speaking could be difficult at first, but that could also come back slowly over time.

With a more severe brain injury, bruising, bleeding, and other issues in the brain can require surgical intervention. Aneurisms and contusions that cause bleeding on the brain can cause pain, weakness, and other symptoms that could eventually be deadly to a patient. A surgeon may need to stem the bleeding and reduce the pressure on the brain to save the patient’s life.

With severe brain injuries, a loss of consciousness is common from the time of injury and for up to hours afterward. The eyes may be dilated or the patient may not be able to awaken. Children with these injuries may also have changes in sleep patterns or be depressed or unhappy. They could struggle with nursing or cry continuously without being able to be consoled.

Any time you or a loved one suffer these injuries, whether it’s during a sporting event or a car accident, you need to seek medical attention. Over time, these injuries may be able to be treated. Those treatments can result in a better quality of life.

Source: Mayo Clinic, “Traumatic brain injury,” accessed June 02, 2015