Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI) impact over one million people every year.
They can cause various levels of issues, including impacting a person’s personality and ability to function intellectually, emotionally, and physically. Studies show that as many as 70-90% of reported TBI cases are categorized as ‘mild,’ yet as many as 90% go undiagnosed.
If not treated properly, the neurological impact of concussions can last for years and increase the risk of neurological disorders, including depression, dementia, and Parkinson’s disease.
Let’s dive deeper into concussions and explain the hidden reality of this common TBI.
What is a Concussion?
Concussions are a form of TBI commonly caused by car accidents, severe falls, and sports injuries.
Because concussions are usually not immediately life-threatening, they are often not diagnosed or viewed with less concern. However, despite the term “mild,” concussion awareness is critical as symptoms of concussions or their impact on the individual are increasingly recognized as a severe health problem requiring increased attention and interventions.
How are Concussions Diagnosed?
Your doctor will provide an examination as well as tests that include a neurological exam, cognitive testing and imaging tests such as a CT scan or x-rays.
A diagnosis of a concussion means you or your loved one should not be alone and in some cases, require an overnight hospital stay for observation. Observation either at home or in the hospital is often standard operating procedure, should symptoms worsen.
What are Common Effects of Concussion?
Concussions can cause brain damage, with milder cases often experiencing temporary effects, while more serious injuries can cause more permanent effects.
Issues are related to disruptions caused by damage, such as bruising, torn tissues, and bleeding.
Some of the common effects of concussion can include:
- Post-Concussion Syndrome: Persistent post-concussive symptoms can occur for mild traumatic brain injury patients, lasting weeks or even months beyond what is expected. This can include headaches, dizziness, and problems with concentration and memory.
- Mental Health Issues: Concussions can cause negative emotional changes leading to mental health disorders that present themselves at the time of the injury or even years after recovery.
This includes issues such as:- Difficulty with self-control
- Engaging in risky behaviors
- Developing a lack of awareness of abilities
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Mood disorders
- Emotional changes
- Cognitive & Executive Functioning: Some people find it increasingly difficult to focus and process thoughts and information. This can impact an individual’s ability to attend school, maintain relationships or carry a job due to erosion of cognitive skills, including:
- Memory
- Learning
- Logic
- Judgment
- Attention control
- Working memory
- Inhibition
- Problem-solving
- Communication: Language and communication issues impact a person’s ability to speak and interpret what others are saying. It also impacts an individual’s ability to write, form ideas, and organize thoughts, leading to issues that affect understanding social cues, carrying on conversations, and expressing themselves.
How are Concussions Treated?
There are several approaches employed in the treatment of concussions focused on both physical and cognitive recovery, including:
Neurofeedback
A neuropsychological evaluation and Quantitative Electroencephalogram (QEEG) assessment determines how the brain is impacted to provide targeted neurofeedback therapy. This can include either neurofeedback training (Brain Avatar) or microcurrent neurofeedback (LENS). The method helps stimulate and encourage the brain to heal itself to improve dysregulation. The goal is to improve concentration, decision-making, and emotional regulation.
Physical and Mental Rest
The first step requires rest, which helps the brain recover. In the first 48 hours, limited activities are recommended, including reading, video games, computer use, etc., as well as general physical exertion, sports, or vigorous movements. Activity is increased based on tolerance and avoiding triggering symptoms.
Cognitive Rehabilitation
Psychologists offer cognitive rehabilitation neuropsychological treatment using one-on-one sessions to practice cognitive and memory exercises. Exercises help strengthen and regain brain function and teach patients strategies to manage and overcome distinct types of cognitive impairment.
Psychotherapy
Psychologists also provide psychotherapy treatments in hand with other treatments when patients suffer from emotion regulation issues. This helps facilitate behaviors that assist in concussion recovery.
The Importance of Brain Injury Prevention
Knowing the serious implications of even mild concussions, it is important to practice Brain Injury Prevention, including appropriate equipment use such as mouthguards and helmets when playing sports and engaging in physical activity, holding handrails when using the stairs, safe driving, and avoidance of using alcohol and drugs that can impair judgment.
When you or someone you love experiences a head injury, even if it does not immediately display worrying symptoms, it is always best to seek medical attention the same day. A doctor will provide a thorough assessment and diagnosis to ensure proper treatment is received. If all is well, nothing is lost, while a diagnosis of concussion or other TBI can greatly improve outcomes and help maintain a higher quality of life.
The Chicago Mind Solutions Difference
Chicago Mind Solutions works with individuals, offering neuropsychological testing and non-invasive treatment for many mental health conditions. For more information about our treatments and teletherapy options, please contact us at (224) 723-5050 or email info@chicagomindsolutions.com.
