Mild traumatic brain injury

Overview

A mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) is a temporary disruption of normal brain function caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head. It is often called a concussion. Most people recover fully with rest and time.

Yes, mild traumatic brain injury is very common. It happens to people of all ages, often during sports, falls, or car accidents.

Anyone can get a mild traumatic brain injury, but it is more common in children, teenagers, and older adults.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Headache or pressure in the head
• Dizziness or balance problems
• Nausea or vomiting (once or twice)
• Blurred or double vision
• Sensitivity to light or noise
• Feeling tired, sluggish, or groggy
• Confusion, trouble concentrating, or memory problems
• Feeling irritable, sad, or anxious

Symptoms in children

• Crying more than usual or being very fussy
• Changes in sleep patterns (sleeping more or less)
• Loss of interest in favorite toys or activities
• Vomiting or feeling sick to the stomach
• Wobbly walking or poor coordination

Symptoms in older adults

• Increased confusion or difficulty remembering things
• Dizziness and higher risk of falling again
• Headache that may be harder to describe
• Changes in mood, like being more withdrawn or irritable
• Slower reaction times or trouble with balance

Causes

Main causes

• Falls (the most common cause, especially in children and older adults)
• Sports injuries (such as from soccer, rugby, football, or cycling)
• Car or motorcycle accidents
• Physical assault or being hit on the head
• Any blow to the head from a blunt object

Risk factors

• Playing contact sports without proper protective gear (like helmets)
• Not wearing a seatbelt while driving
• Walking or cycling in unsafe areas
• Having had a previous concussion (higher risk of another one)
• Being very young or very old (more fragile brain tissue)

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you have any of the emergency symptoms listed above, call your local emergency number immediately.
• If symptoms get worse instead of better after 24 hours.
• If you have difficulty waking up or staying awake.

Book a routine appointment if:

• If you have a headache that does not go away after a few days.
• If you are still feeling confused, forgetful, or dizzy after a week.
• If you are worried about your recovery and want advice.

Diagnosis

A doctor will ask about how you got hurt, your symptoms, and do a physical exam. They will check your coordination, balance, memory, and concentration. They may also ask you to do simple tasks.

Tests that may be done

• Neurological exam (checking reflexes, vision, hearing, strength, and sensation)
• Cognitive tests (like answering questions or recalling words)
• CT scan (a special X-ray of the head) if there are signs of a more severe injury
• MRI scan (detailed brain images) in some cases

What to expect at your appointment

The doctor will likely tell you to rest and give you a plan to gradually return to normal activities. They may recommend avoiding sports and heavy physical work until you are fully recovered. You will be asked to watch for any worsening symptoms and to come back if you are worried.

Treatment

Treatment for mild traumatic brain injury focuses on rest and allowing your brain to heal. There is no specific medicine that makes the injury go away. Your body needs time to recover. You can manage symptoms like headaches with simple methods like a cool cloth or lying in a dark room.

Self-care at home

• Rest your brain: avoid reading, using screens (phone, computer, TV) for long periods, and listening to loud music.
• Rest your body: get plenty of sleep, avoid physical exertion, and do not drive until cleared.
• Use a cool, damp cloth on your forehead to help with headaches. Do not take strong painkillers without asking a doctor.
• Eat small, easy-to-digest meals if you feel sick to your stomach.
• Avoid alcohol and recreational drugs, as they can interfere with healing.

Medical treatments

Doctors may recommend over-the-counter pain relievers for headaches, but always ask first. They might refer you to a specialist (like a neurologist) if symptoms last a long time. Physical therapy, occupational therapy, or vision therapy can help with balance, dizziness, or vision problems. Therapy for memory or thinking issues may also be available.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is almost never needed for mild traumatic brain injury. It is only considered if there is bleeding or swelling inside the skull, which is rare in mild cases.

Living with this condition

You need to be patient with yourself. Your brain heals slowly, so do not rush back to normal activities. Take breaks often, and don't expect to perform at your best right away. Let your family, friends, and work know that you are recovering.

Lifestyle tips

• Get plenty of sleep at night and take short naps during the day if needed.
• Avoid activities that could cause another head injury, like contact sports or risky physical activities.
• Reduce screen time to avoid eye strain and headaches.
• Pace yourself: do one thing at a time and rest between tasks.
• Avoid bright lights and loud noises if they bother you.

Diet and exercise

Eat a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and protein to help your brain heal. Stay hydrated by drinking water. Avoid heavy exercise at first. Once you feel better, start with light walking and increase gradually. Ask your doctor when it is safe to return to sports.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

It is normal to feel frustrated, irritable, sad, or anxious after a head injury. These feelings often improve as you recover. If you feel very down or hopeless, or if you have thoughts of harming yourself, please talk to a mental health professional or call a crisis helpline immediately. You are not alone.

Prevention

Many mild traumatic brain injuries can be prevented. Wearing a helmet when cycling, skiing, or playing contact sports can help. Always wear a seatbelt in the car. Make your home safer by removing tripping hazards and using grab bars in the bathroom. Teach children to play safely and avoid roughhousing near stairs.

Complications

If left untreated

• Post-concussion syndrome: symptoms like headache, dizziness, and trouble thinking that last for weeks or months.
• Increased risk of another concussion, which can be more serious.
• Second impact syndrome (very rare but dangerous): a second concussion before the first has healed can cause severe brain swelling.

Long-term outlook

The outlook is generally very good. Most people recover fully within a few weeks. Some people may have symptoms that last longer, but with proper care and patience, they usually improve. Follow your doctor's advice and give your brain the time it needs to heal.

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