Understanding Basic Facts about TBI
If you have suffered any type of blow or bump to the head, you are not alone…the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) estimates that more than three million Americans seek treatment for a traumatic brain injury (TBI) every year. That may actually be an understatement of the frequency of such injuries, as many people (often wrongfully) assume that their injuries are minor and pose no cause for concern. Nonetheless, when you’ve suffered any type of injury y0ur neck or head, you may have many questions.
What Is a Traumatic Brain Injury?
A traumatic brain injury is any injury to your brain caused by impact, shaking or blunt force, as opposed to an acquired brain injury, which may stem from disease or illness. With a TBI, there can be damage to nerve cells, internal bleeding or swelling/inflammation within your brain.
Is a Concussion Different from a Traumatic Brain Injury?
A concussion is simply a form of traumatic brain injury, typically used to describe mild to moderate TBIs. It’s important to understand that any level of concussion or traumatic brain injury has the potential to have serious consequences, based on a variety of factors, including prior medical history and age.
What Are the Common Causes of Traumatic Brain Injury?
There are generally four incidents that lead to TBI:
- Any type of blow to the head, whether in a fall, a motor vehicle accident or an athletic event
- A severe shaking of the head, most commonly seen with infants and small children, where the child’s brain bounces off the inside of the skull
- A penetration injury, where a foreign object, such as a bullet or metal stake, pierces the skull and enters the brain
- Whiplash-related injuries, where a collision of some sort causes the victims head and neck to violently snap back and forth, making impact with the skull bone
What Are the Typical Symptoms of a Traumatic Brain Injury?
There are many indications of a potential TBI:
- Headaches that last more than a day or so
- Persistent nausea or vomiting
- Increased sensitivity to sound or light
- A continued ringing in your ears
- Dizziness, vertigo or balance issues
- Slurred speech or difficulty answering basic questions
- Seizure of any kind
What Are the Most Important Things to Do after a Potential TBI?
If you think you have suffered a traumatic brain injury, you should:
- Immediately stop any activity that may potentially put stress on your brain, including physical exercise, viewing screens of any kind or making decisions
- Schedule an appointment with your primary care physician—If you need emergency care, go to a hospital or urgent care facility. If not, get in to see your primary care doctor as soon as possible
- Begin a gentle exercise program under the guidance of a medical professional—Exercise can provide nourishment for your brain, but you don’t want to do too much too soon. Consult your primary care doctor for guidance.
Contact Us to Set Up an Appointment
At Advantage Healthcare Systems, we have extensive experience helping injured federal workers recover medical benefits through a work comp claim. Call us toll-free at 1-877-487-8289 or fill out the form provided below to schedule an assessment. We offer locations across Texas, including Fort Worth, Dallas and San Antonio.