What is a traumatic brain injury?
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a complex injury resulting from a sudden trauma that causes damage to the brain. It can occur when the head suddenly hits an object or if the skull is pierced. A TBI can be mild, moderate, or severe, and its effects can be permanent or temporary.
While a traumatic brain injury can impact quality of life, it’s often treatable with surgery, medications, cognitive and occupational therapy, and lifestyle changes. It may require emergency intervention to relieve pressure and other serious symptoms. TBI may also require ongoing management to monitor the progression and extent of long-term brain damage.
Penn Medicine’s network of neurosurgeons and neurologists work together to provide thorough, compassionate care for TBI, from the initial trauma to its long-term impact.
Traumatic brain injury symptoms
Symptoms of TBI vary based on the type of trauma to the brain. Some people with TBI have no immediate symptoms but should still be assessed by their doctor immediately after their brain sustains impact and regularly afterward to ensure there's no progression of damage.
Mild symptoms of TBI include:
- Brief loss of consciousness
- Lightheadedness
- Dizziness
- Blurred vision or tired eyes
- Change in sleep patterns
- Trouble with memory
- Disturbances in sleep
More serious symptoms include:
- Headaches that worsen or won't go away
- Vomiting or nausea
- Seizures
- Weakness or numbness in extremities
- Loss of coordination
The most severe TBIs can also cause memory loss, impaired cognitive abilities, speech and recognition issues, sleep disorders, mobility and movement problems, muscle weakness, and more. Depending on how much trauma the brain has experienced, symptoms may be managed with therapeutic techniques, medications, or surgery.
TBI Causes and risks
A traumatic brain injury can occur any time the head and brain sustain serious physical impact. While it most commonly affects people 65 years of age or older, it can impact people of all ages. Some of the more common factors that lead to TBI include:
- Serious falls
- Firearm related incidents
- Motor vehicle accidents
- Physical assault
Combat sports, military battle operations, and labor-oriented jobs can also increase the risk of traumatic brain injury.
Diagnosing traumatic brain injuries
Anyone who sustains a serious blow to the head should be tested immediately for TBI. This is especially important for children who aren’t always able to articulate their symptoms when they feel them. Your doctor will perform a neurological exam to assess motor and sensory skills, hearing and speech, and other cognitive and behavioral functions. They may recommend additional tests to form an accurate diagnosis and create the most effective treatment plan.
Penn Medicine offers advanced diagnostic tools to guide you or your loved one in your TBI treatment.
Traumatic brain injury treatment
Penn Medicine’s neurology specialists and neurosurgeons are experienced in treating all types of traumatic brain injury, from mild to severe cases. Your doctor will perform a thorough neurological exam, order diagnostic testing, and may prescribe medications as part of your treatment plan.
Since TBIs can have long-term impacts, we also offer extensive coping and support resources for patients, their caregivers, and their families, while providing access to the latest research-based treatments for the best possible outcomes. Penn Medicine’s RECOVER Program was specifically established to provide the most advanced care for lingering consciousness and awareness issues caused by TBI.