Traumatic Brain Injury Explained By Dr. Hellen Kim

I have been a neurologist since 1997 with a focus on general neurology and a special interest in head injuries such as concussions. My background in treating pain syndromes, especially headaches, naturally led me to this area.

What is a Traumatic Brain Injury A traumatic brain injury happens when physical force affects how the brain works. It can occur even without hitting the head. Whiplash, sudden movement, or blast injuries can cause the brain to move inside the skull. This movement creates stress on the brain and can lead to injury. Over 1.7 million people in the United States experience TBIs each year.

What Happens Inside the Brain The brain responds to injury with inflammation. This is the body’s natural healing process. Headaches are the most common early symptom. Sometimes small blood vessels break and release blood that irritates surrounding brain tissue. The damage may not always be visible on scans right away.

Causes and Types of TBI You can get a TBI from falls, accidents, sports, or any forceful movement. Even riding a rollercoaster or frequent head banging can cause repeated brain stress. Non-physical causes like carbon monoxide poisoning are not considered traumatic brain injuries.

Symptoms Symptoms depend on the area of the brain affected and may includeHeadachesDizziness or balance problemsVision or hearing issuesCognitive difficulties like memory loss or slow thinkingSleep problemsMood and personality changesFatigueNausea or vomitingDigestive issues and food sensitivities Muscle or joint pain.

Cognitive and Mood Effects

These often overlap with sleep problems. Poor sleep can lead to lack of focus, slower thinking, and emotional changes.

Timing of Symptoms Symptoms can appear within days or weeks. If symptoms show up early, recovery may be faster. Delayed symptoms can lead to a longer healing process. Health history and age also play a role.

Diagnosing TBI Diagnosis starts with a history of trauma and matching symptoms. Imaging such as CT scans or MRIs are used to look for serious injuries. Other tests include EEG, cognitive assessments, balance and vision tests, and sleep evaluations.

What Testing Shows Objective tests like neuropsych evaluations are very helpful. They measure brain function and are hard to fake. They also help reveal issues like anxiety or depression that may affect brain performance.

Treatment and Recovery There is no single cure. Recovery focuses onGetting real sleepStaying well hydratedLimiting brain stimulationDoing light physical activity when ready

Sleep is essential. Brain rest means reducing noise, screens, and thinking. Water helps your body and brain function during recovery.

How Long to Rest Each person is different. The more rest and hydration early on, the better. If the injury is serious, longer recovery and more support are needed.

Cognitive Therapy This helps form new brain connections if some areas are damaged. Like physical therapy for muscles, it trains the brain to regain function. It may be short-term or used off and on over time.

Long-Term Recovery People can improve over months or even years. However, many do not return fully to their previous state. Aging and other health factors may slow progress. After six months, a new normal is often established.

Chronic SymptomsIf someone still has headaches or memory problems a year later, we look at hydration, sleep, and medication history. Long-term use of medications or poor sleep can cause more problems.

Maximum Medical Improvement This is often reached within six months. Most people do not return to being completely symptom free. They adjust to a new baseline and may need ongoing support.

Ongoing TreatmentsSome continue using medication or explore options like physical therapy, yoga, or massage. Motivation plays a big role in these efforts.

Measuring Permanent Impairment We use cognitive testing and patient-reported symptoms like dizziness or poor focus. These reports help determine the level of impairment based on medical guidelines.

Final Message Healing from a TBI requires rest, hydration, and patience. Supportive care is the foundation. My goal is always to help patients understand their bodies better and take steps toward long-term wellness.