Spring is upon us, and with it comes more outdoor activities. As sports take center stage, the opportunity for accidents also increases. Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is one of the more frequent accidents that can occur because of a jolt to the brain or direct injury from an object passing through the skull. Falls are the most common cause of TBI. Falls can occur from riding a bike, skateboarding, or climbing a ladder. A blow to the head while playing baseball, football, soccer, or other contact sport can also result in TBI.    

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If you have suffered an accident, these may be early signs that you have sustained a TBI. The Mayo Clinic says mild symptoms may include: 

  • Nausea, headache, drowsiness, loss of balance 
  • Ringing in the ear, or sensitivity to light and sound 
  • Brief loss of consciousness, mood changes, or difficulty sleeping 
  • Difficulty remembering 

 

Some signs of moderate to severe TBI may present as: 

  •  Worsening headache or confusion and being agitated 
  • Loss of consciousness for several minutes, difficulty waking up, seizures 
  • Clear fluid draining from the ear or nose 
  • Numbness and loss of sensation in the fingers or toes or loss of balance 

Any change in behavior or body function after an accident is a reason to see the doctor. Mild only means the symptoms may be less evident initially but left untreated; they usually worsen over time. 

How do you decrease the risk of TBI or other injury?  

  • Think safety first and always.  
  • Wear a helmet when biking or playing sports where a head blow is possible. 
  • If you are unsteady, not good with heights, or alone, climbing a ladder may not be a good idea. 
  • Treat even minor signs of injury seriously and get medical help. 

 

Happy Spring. Be safe! 

 

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Disclaimer: This is not a medical consultation. It should not replace the instructions to manage your specific medical condition given by your doctor or medical provider.

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