Mild traumatic brain injury (TBI), often referred to as a concussion, can result in a range of symptoms that vary in severity and duration. Common symptoms experienced by patients with mild TBI include:
- Headache: Persistent or intermittent headaches are a common symptom following a mild TBI. These headaches may vary in intensity and may worsen with physical or cognitive exertion.
- Dizziness and Balance Problems:Patients may experience feelings of dizziness, lightheadedness, or vertigo. They may also have difficulty maintaining balance or feel unsteady on their feet.
- Fatigue: Fatigue and tiredness are frequently reported symptoms after a mild TBI. Patients may feel physically and mentally exhausted, even with minimal exertion.
- Cognitive Difficulties: Mild TBI can lead to cognitive impairments, including difficulty concentrating, memory problems, and slower processing speed. Patients may have trouble focusing on tasks, organizing thoughts, or recalling information.
- Sleep Disturbances: Changes in sleep patterns are common following a mild TBI. Patients may experience difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or may feel unrefreshed despite adequate rest.
- Sensory Sensitivity: Sensory sensitivities, such as increased sensitivity to light (photophobia) or noise (phonophobia), may occur after a mild TBI. Patients may find bright lights or loud noises bothersome or overwhelming.
- Mood Changes: Mood disturbances are often observed in patients with mild TBI. They may experience irritability, mood swings, anxiety, or depression. Emotional lability, characterized by exaggerated emotional responses, may also occur.
- Nausea or Vomiting: Some patients with mild TBI may experience nausea or vomiting, particularly in the immediate aftermath of the injury.
It is important to note that symptoms of mild TBI can be subtle and may not always be immediately apparent. Additionally, individual experiences may vary, and not all patients will exhibit the same symptoms.