Physical symptoms

• Loss of consciousness from several minutes to hours.
• Persistent headache or headache that worsens.
• Repeated vomiting or nausea.
• Convulsions or seizures.
• Dilation of one or both pupils of the eyes.
• Clear fluids draining from the nose or ears.
• Inability to awaken from sleep.

What qualifies as a traumatic brain injury?

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) is a disruption in the normal function of the brain that can be caused by a blow, bump or jolt to the head, the head suddenly and violently hitting an object or when an object pierces the skull and enters brain tissue.

How long does it take to recover from a traumatic brain injury?

The prognosis for mild TBI is usually better than for a moderate TBI, and the prognosis for moderate TBI is usually better than for a severe TBI. With a concussion (mild TBI), most people recover most or all of their brain function within 3 months following injury, with most recovering sooner.

What is the difference between a concussion and a TBI?

A traumatic brain injury (TBI) occurs from sudden trauma which causes damage to the brain. TBI can happen when the head suddenly and violently hits an object or when an object pierces the skull and enters brain tissue. A concussion, which is common in physical contact sports, is a form of brain injury.

What are the long term effects of mild traumatic brain injury?

The Long-Term Effects of Mild Traumatic Brain Injury

1. Persistent Headaches. Persistent headaches, especially migraines, are a very common effect of mTBI.
2. Light sensitivity.
3. Dizziness.
4. Sleep problems.
5. Mood swings.
6. Cognitive impairments.
7. Depression and anxiety.

How does the brain heal after trauma?

van der Kolk writes that there are three avenues for recovery: “top down, by talking, (re-) connecting with others, and allowing ourselves to know and understand what is going on with us”; “taking medicines that shut down inappropriate alarm reactions”; and “bottom up, by allowing the body to have experiences that …