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    How to tell if you have a Traumatic Brain Injury

    May 4, 2022SD Chiropractic Neurology
    How to tell if you have a Traumatic Brain Injury

    How to Identify a Traumatic Brain Injury

    A traumatic brain injury (TBI) can be tricky to identify. Typically if you are even having to ask yourself whether or not you may have had a TBI, you should first go seek out a doctor to evaluate you properly. They should at a minimum take a thorough history from you and perform a neurological exam for TBI findings.

    Diagnostic Testing for Brain Injuries

    If your injury is more recent they should additionally send you for imaging like a Brain MRI or CT scan. This can help identify how severe the injury could be.

    Common Symptoms of a Traumatic Brain Injury

    Listed below are some of the symptoms that those suffering from a brain injury might experience:
    • Headache
    • Confusion
    • Lightheadedness
    • Dizziness
    • Blurred vision
    • Ringing in the ears, also known as tinnitus
    • Tiredness or sleepiness
    • A bad taste in the mouth
    • A change in sleep habits
    • Behavior or mood changes
    • Trouble with memory, concentration, attention, or thinking
    • Loss of consciousness lasting a few seconds to minutes
    • Sensitivity to light or sound
    • Nausea or vomiting

    Severe TBI Warning Signs

    Seek emergency medical attention if you experience any of these more severe symptoms:
    • Headache that gets worse or will not go away
    • Loss of vision in one or both eyes
    • Repeated vomiting or continued nausea
    • Slurred speech
    • Convulsions or seizures
    • An inability to wake up from sleep
    • Enlargement of the pupil of one or both eyes
    • Numbness or tingling of arms or legs
    • Uncoordinated or "clumsy" movements
    • Increased confusion, restlessness, or agitation
    • Loss of consciousness lasting a few minutes to hours

    What to Do If You Suspect a Brain Injury

    If you have one or more of the symptoms listed above you should look into being evaluated by a doctor to get a proper diagnosis and plan for recovery. Learn more about what constitutes a traumatic brain injury or read about long-term effects of TBI. Our concussion specialists in San Diego can perform comprehensive evaluations to determine the extent of your injury and create a personalized recovery plan. Schedule a consultation today.