Traumatic Brain Injury

Car accidents and sports activities are the top causes of traumatic brain injuries. Following a brain injury, you need treatment from Robert Price, MD, and the team at Central Coast Neurology. They offer on-site testing so they can monitor your injuries while providing comprehensive care that supports every aspect of your recovery. To schedule an appointment, call the office in San Luis Obispo, California, or request an appointment online today. 

What is a traumatic brain injury?

A traumatic brain injury occurs when an external force impacts the head, causing the brain to hit against the skull’s hard interior. TBIs range in severity from mild to severe.

A mild TBI, or concussion, may only involve a brief loss of consciousness or temporary disorientation. In contrast, a moderate or severe TBI can lead to prolonged loss of consciousness and lasting neurological issues, requiring immediate medical intervention.

What problems can develop from a traumatic brain injury?

A TBI can cause various physical and neurological complications, including:

• Hematoma: Localized bleeding that forms a blood clot within the brain tissue or surrounding areas.
• Cerebral contusion: Bruising of the brain tissue, which can lead to swelling and pressure on surrounding areas.
• Intracerebral hemorrhage: Bleeding within the brain tissue itself.
• Subarachnoid hemorrhage: Bleeding in the area surrounding the brain.
• Hydrocephalus: Fluid buildup within the brain that can increase intracranial pressure.
• Diffuse nerve injuries: Damage to nerve cells, potentially disrupting communication between brain regions.

In some cases, TBIs can also result in skull fractures, which may further complicate the injury and require specialized care.

What symptoms develop following a traumatic brain injury?

The symptoms following a TBI vary depending on its severity:

Mild TBI (concussion)

Individuals may experience headaches, confusion, dizziness, or temporary memory loss. In some cases, a brief loss of consciousness may occur.

Moderate TBI

Symptoms can include longer periods of disorientation, lethargy, or loss of consciousness lasting up to six hours. During this time, individuals may also experience vision problems, difficulty concentrating, and persistent headaches.

Severe TBI

Severe injuries often lead to unconsciousness lasting more than six hours and may result in significant memory loss, seizures, vomiting, and a range of cognitive difficulties. Patients with severe TBI are also at risk of secondary brain injuries, such as swelling or fluid accumulation, in the days following the initial injury.

How do neurologists treat traumatic brain injuries?

Treatment for TBIs varies depending on the injury’s severity. Mild TBIs are often treated with rest and monitoring to ensure symptoms do not worsen. Patients are advised to limit physical and mental activities, allowing the brain to recover.

Moderate to severe TBIs typically require hospitalization and, in some cases, intensive care. Surgery may be necessary to relieve pressure caused by bleeding or swelling. Neurologists may also use sedation to manage pain and catheters to monitor intracranial pressure and oxygen levels in the brain.

Patients recovering from a severe TBI often receive medication to prevent seizures, a common risk in the days following the injury. Neurologists also provide ongoing care to manage symptoms, support rehabilitation, and monitor long-term recovery.

Early intervention and specialized care are crucial for individuals affected by TBIs, helping them to achieve the best possible outcomes and minimize long-term complications.

If you’ve experienced a TBI, call Central Coast Neurology or request an appointment online today.