Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
Overview
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a change in brain function or brain pathology. TBI usually results from an external blow or jolt to the head, or from an object piercing the skull and entering the brain.
Immediately see a provider if you, your child or a loved one has a hit to the head that concerns you or surfaces clear behavioral and cognitive changes, especially within the first 24 hours.
Common symptoms
Physical
- headache
- seizures or convulsions
- nausea or vomiting
- blurred vision, double vision
- clear fluids draining from ears or nose
- slurred speech
- dizziness, unbalanced
- fatigue
Cognitive or Behavioral
- anxiousness
- depression
- mood swings
- trouble concentration, decision-making, or with memory
- confusion, disorientation
- frustration, irritability
