How to Tell if You Have a Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
How to Tell if You Have a Traumatic Brain Injury
A traumatic brain injury (TBI) can be surprisingly hard to identify. Many people walk out of the emergency room without a diagnosis and only realize weeks later that their symptoms are not resolving. If you have been asking yourself whether a recent head impact or whiplash event left you with a TBI, this guide will help you decide what to do next.
Start with a Proper Evaluation
A physician should take a thorough history and perform a neurological exam that includes cranial nerves, cognition, oculomotor function, balance, and coordination. If the injury is recent or symptoms are worsening, imaging such as a brain MRI or CT is often ordered to rule out bleeding or structural injury.
Common Symptoms of a Traumatic Brain Injury
- Headache
- Confusion or difficulty concentrating
- Lightheadedness
- Dizziness or vertigo
- Blurred vision or double vision
- Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
- Tiredness, brain fog, or sleep disturbances
- Changes in taste or smell
- Mood swings, irritability, or anxiety
- Memory problems
- Sensitivity to light or sound
- Nausea or vomiting
- Brief loss of consciousness
Emergency Warning Signs
Seek emergency care immediately if you notice any of the following after a head injury:
- Headache that steadily worsens
- Loss of vision in one or both eyes
- Repeated vomiting
- Slurred speech
- Seizures or convulsions
- Inability to wake from sleep
- One pupil larger than the other
- Numbness or tingling in the arms or legs
- Sudden clumsiness or loss of coordination
- Increased confusion, agitation, or restlessness
- Loss of consciousness lasting minutes or longer
When Symptoms Do Not Resolve
If symptoms persist beyond two to four weeks, you may be dealing with persistent post-concussion symptoms. These often involve the visual system, vestibular system, autonomic nervous system, or upper cervical spine and respond well to targeted rehabilitation rather than more rest.
Learn more about what counts as a TBI and the long-term effects of a TBI.
Getting an Evaluation in San Diego
Our concussion and TBI team performs a full neurological workup including oculomotor testing, VOR and gaze stability, balance and gait, and autonomic screening. If a TBI is identified, we build a plan that may include neuro-visual rehabilitation, vestibular therapy, and cognitive therapy. Schedule a consultation today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you have a TBI and not know it?
Yes. Symptoms are sometimes mild at first, or they are attributed to stress or fatigue. Many patients are diagnosed weeks after the original injury.
Do I need to lose consciousness to have a TBI?
No. Most concussions occur without any loss of consciousness.
How long do TBI symptoms last?
Most people recover in two to four weeks. When symptoms last longer, targeted rehab is typically needed to restore function.
Should I go to the ER for a possible concussion?
Go to the ER if you have any red-flag symptoms listed above. Otherwise, schedule a prompt evaluation with a provider trained in TBI rehabilitation.