Traumatic brain injury (TBI) symptoms, causes, and treatment by Lisa

Suffering from a TBI is devastating for the individual and for their loved ones. No two people are alike and no two brain injuries are alike. Some symptoms an individual who have a TBI can experience:

*Loss of consciousness for several minutes to several hours
*Persistent/worsening headache
*Repeated vomiting/nausea
*Seizuers/convulsions
*Dilated pupil(s)
*Clear fluids draining from the nose or ears
*Inability to waken from sleep
*Finger and toes weakness/numbness
*Loss of coordination
*Profound confusion
*Agitation/combative/abnormal behavior/emotional changes
*Slurred speech

Brain injuries can be a result of a fall, car accident, violence, sports injuries, and explosive blasts or combat injuries. Falls are the leading cause. The effects can be long-lasting or even permanent. Certain types may increase the risk of Alzheimer’s.

Initial treatment upon admission into a care facility involves ensuring proper oxygen and blood flow to the brain and body, stabilizing blood pressure, and treating any other areas of problems besides the brain that have arisen because of the injury. After the individual is stabilized, the treatment plan involves rehabilitation efforts to teach how to cope with symptoms and to help individuals reach maximum levels of independence.

There is a wealth of support in the community that can help individuals live with a brain injury as the brain has a remarkable way of adjusting after injury. It is critical to know the symptoms and seek immediate treatment to eliminate the possibility of more serious complications. A treatment team can include:

*Physical therapists-help patients regain coordination, flexibility, and range of motion. They also address pain and stiffness.
*Occupational therapists-help patients relearn how to perform activities of daily livings (ADLs)
*Neuropsychologists-tests patients’ functional abilities to determine which areas the rehabilitation process should focus on.
*Psychiatrists-help patients manage their cognitive, emotional, and behavioral symptoms.

Above all, the most important members of the treatment team are the individual’s family.