Understanding a Brain Injury
concussions
The CDC estimates that 3.8 million people sustain a concussion annually while playing sports in the US. TBI symptoms vary and can be mild or severe, affecting memory, behavior, and mood. It is important to note that X-rays, MRIs, and CTs scans cannot diagnose a concussion. It will be essential to note the Signs and Symptoms for evaluation.
Signs:
Loss of consciousness
Difficulty maintaining balance
A vacant or distant expression in the eyes
Memory loss (amnesia)
Slower response to questions or commands
Difficulty retaining and recalling instructions, assignments, or game details, including the score or opponent
Random outbursts of emotions
Episodes of vomiting
Symptoms that often accompany a brain injury are
Persistent head pain
Feeling faint or dizzy
Experiencing lightheadedness
Feeling nauseous
Heightened sensitivity to light
Increased sensitivity to noise
Struggling with concentration
Experiencing difficulties with memory
Finding it hard to maintain focus
Facing challenges when multitasking
Difficulty completing cognitive tasks
Changes in sleep patterns, including increased or decreased sleep duration
Sleep onset difficulties or trouble falling asleep
Anxiety
Depression
Panic attacks
Note: This list isn't exhaustive; concussion symptoms may not show up immediately after the initial injury, sometimes taking a few days.
Sub-concussions
Sub-concussive impacts, which are blows to the head that do not result in symptoms, have been found to have potentially harmful effects on the brain over time. Repeated sub-concussive impacts have been linked to decreased brain recovery resilience.
To reduce the risk of sub-concussive impacts, it is essential to wear appropriate protective gear, follow safety protocols, and limit exposure to activities that may result in these impacts. By being aware of the potential risks of the sub-concussive effects, individuals can make informed decisions about their activities and take steps to protect their brain health.
Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy
CTE (Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy) is a progressive degenerative brain disease caused by repeated blows or trauma to the head. It is commonly associated with contact sports like football, boxing, hockey, and military combat. CTE is characterized by the accumulation of a protein called tau in the brain, leading to brain cell death over time.
The symptoms of CTE can include memory loss, confusion, impaired judgment, aggression, depression, and dementia. However, it is essential to note that CTE can only be definitively diagnosed after death through a post-mortem examination of the brain. Nonetheless, advanced brain imaging techniques, such as SPECT scans, can provide indicators suggesting CTE in living individuals. Although there is no cure for CTE, lifestyle changes and treatments can significantly impact its lasting effects and lower the risk of developing it. For further information on CTE, we suggest The Concussion Legacy Foundation.
Pathogenic Complications
Prolonged post-concussion syndrome (PCS) can occur when the symptoms of a concussion persist for an extended time, often months or even years after the initial injury. Recent research suggests that specific pathogens may contribute to the development of prolonged PCS. Please see our pathogenic infection page for more information.