Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

What is TBI?
A traumatic brain injury (TBI) happens when the brain is injured due to:

• A strong blow or jolt to the head (closed injury).

• An object entering through the skull into the brain (open injury).

TBI is also known as a head injury. A mild form of TBI is commonly called a concussion.

Causes

The most frequent causes of TBI include:

• Falls

• Road traffic accidents

• Sports-related injuries

• Physical assaults
  
  

Risk Factors

Certain factors increase the likelihood of developing a TBI:

• Age 75 years or older

• Male gender

• Playing contact sports (football, hockey, soccer)

• Serving in the military

• Being a victim of violence

• Alcohol or drug use

• Having a previous history of TBI

Signs and Symptoms

Symptoms may vary depending on the severity of the injury. They can include:

• Loss of consciousness

• Confusion, dizziness, or poor coordination

• Headache

• Nausea or vomiting

• Slurred speech

• Seizures

• Fatigue or changes in sleep
  
  

Other possible symptoms are:

• Mood and personality changes (depression, anxiety, irritability, memory problems)

• Poor impulse control

• Difficulty concentrating, organizing, or making decisions

• Reduced or altered senses (vision, hearing, or touch), such as blurred vision or ringing in the ears
  
  

Diagnosis

TBI is usually diagnosed through:

• Medical history and physical examination

• Neurological assessment (reflexes, memory, coordination)

• Brain imaging, such as a CT scan

TBIs are classified as mild, moderate, or severe.

Treatment

Management depends on the severity of injury and may involve:

• Breathing support (ventilation)

• Medicines for blood pressure, pain, or brain swelling

• Brain surgery to:

  • Remove blood clots

  • Control bleeding

  • Remove foreign objects (e.g., bone fragments or bullets)

Additional treatment may include:

• Rest and observation

• Medicines for headache, nausea, or sleep disturbances

• Rehabilitation (physical, occupational, or speech therapy)

• Referral to a concussion or neuro-rehabilitation clinic
  
  

Home Care Instructions

Medicines

• Take only prescribed or approved over-the-counter medicines.

• Avoid blood thinners unless specifically advised.

• Discuss aspirin or NSAIDs with your doctor, as they may increase bleeding risk.

Activity

• Rest is vital for brain healing:

  • Get 7–9 hours of sleep each night.

  • Take naps or rest breaks during the day.

• Avoid activities that may cause another concussion (sports, cycling, etc.), especially if dizzy.

• Limit screen time, reading, or activities that strain the eyes.

• Follow your provider’s guidance for a gradual return to work, exercise, and daily tasks.

General Advice

• Do not drink alcohol.

• Monitor your symptoms and ask others to watch for changes.

• Older adults are at higher risk of complications—extra caution is needed.

• Stay connected with family and friends for support.

• Keep all follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider.
  
  

When to Contact a Doctor

Call your healthcare provider if you:

• Have worsening or persistent symptoms

• Develop new symptoms

• Sustain another head injury

• Experience severe headaches, nausea, or vomiting that do not improve

• Have vertigo (a spinning sensation)

• Notice changes in your vision
  
  

When to Seek Emergency Help

• Weakness or numbness in the body

• Confusion or difficulty waking up

• Slurred speech

• Seizures or fainting

• Clear or bloody fluid draining from the nose or ears

⚠️ Do not wait for symptoms to improve. Do not drive yourself to the hospital.

Note: This information is for patient education and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider with questions or concerns.