Traumatic Brain Injury
The National Institute of Health states:
A traumatic brain injury (TBI) refers to a brain injury that is caused by an outside force. TBI can be caused by a forceful bump, blow, or jolt to the head or body or an object entering the brain. Not all blows or jolts to the head result in TBI.
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Some types of TBI can cause temporary or short-term problems with brain function, including how a person thinks, understands, moves, communicates, and acts. More serious TBI can lead to severe and permanent disability and even death.
Symptoms of Traumatic Brain Injury
Physical
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Headache
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Convulsions or seizures
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Blurred or double vision
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Unequal pupil size or dilation
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Clear fluids draining from the nose or ears
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Nausea and vomiting
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New neurological problems, (ex. slurred speech, weakness of arms/legs/face, loss of balance)
Cognitive
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Loss of or change in conscious-ness for anywhere from a few seconds to a few hours
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Decreased consciousness (e.g., hard to awaken)
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Confusion or disorientation
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Problems remembering, concentrating, decision-making
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Changes in sleep patterns (e.g., sleeping more, difficulty falling or staying asleep, inability to wake)
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Frustration, irritability
Perception
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Light-headedness, dizziness, vertigo, or loss of balance or coordination
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Blurred vision
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Hearing problems, such as ringing in the ears
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Unexplained bad taste in the mouth
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Sensitivity to light or sound
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Mood changes or swings
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Feeling anxious or depressed
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Fatigue or drowsiness; a lack of energy or motivation
Source: National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke