Traumatic brain injury can be caused by various types of head injuries, including falls, assaults, and car accidents. Symptoms vary depending on the extent of the damage and can range from headaches to loss of consciousness. Treatment may include medication and extensive medical care. It is important to see a doctor after a head injury.
When trauma to the brain occurs, it is sometimes referred to as a traumatic brain injury. Various types of injuries can cause traumatic brain injury. It is most commonly the result of an automobile accident; however, other types of head injuries can also cause traumatic brain injury. For example, falls, gunshot wounds, and blows to the head from an assault can all lead to brain injuries. When an infant or toddler is violently shaken, it can also cause brain injury.
Symptoms of brain trauma can vary depending on the extent of the damage to the brain and which part of the brain is affected. When an open brain injury occurs, the skull and brain are penetrated, causing hemorrhaging and damage to brain tissue. In a blunt head injury, the brain is knocked against the skull by some type of force, and bleeding, swelling, and pressure may develop. Both types of trauma can result in minor to severe brain injuries.
A mild traumatic brain injury can cause symptoms including headache, confusion, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, mood changes, and blurred vision. Symptoms may only last from a few minutes to a day or two. More serious injuries to the brain can cause problems walking and talking. A person may have confusion, seizures, and loss of consciousness. In more severe brain injuries, the area of the brain responsible for breathing becomes impaired and breathing stops.
Infants and children who have a traumatic brain injury may have some of the same symptoms as adults. However, in young children who don’t yet have verbal skills, the symptoms may not be as obvious as with an adult. Young children may appear excessively sleepy and be difficult to wake up. A child can be very irritable and refuse to eat.
Symptoms of traumatic brain injury can occur immediately after the injury or occur a few hours to a few days later. The delay in onset of symptoms may be due to a gradual increase in pressure as the brain swells or hemorrhage begins. Since it can be difficult for an individual to determine whether the head injury has caused a brain injury, it is safer to see a doctor after a blow to the head.
Treatment for traumatic brain injury symptoms may include medications to prevent brain swelling and reduce damage. Medications may be given to help with the nausea. Individuals with severe brain injuries often require extensive and lengthy medical care.
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