A traumatic brain injury (TBI) refers to brain dysfunction that typically develops when the head suffers a forceful hit or blow. TBIs are most common during car crashes and sports accidents and can cause emotional, physical, and cognitive well-being problems. The symptoms can range from mild to severe, depending on the type and severity of the TBI.
Some TBIs can be fully healed in a short period of time, while others can take a significantly longer time to heal.
Visit a Practitioner After a Head Injury
After you sustain a head injury, you should visit a practitioner immediately for an examination, even if you don’t show any signs following the injury. Sometimes, your symptoms won’t appear for days or weeks, and delaying treatment can worsen the damage and prolong your recovery.
Your doctor will evaluate your injury through a thorough examination and imaging tests, such as computerized tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). These tests will help see the internal damage and assess the severity of the TBI.
Depending on the severity of the condition, your doctor may recommend bed rest and some medications or a hospital visit to get the problem under control. TBIs that are severe in nature may require continuous care as well as follow-ups with a doctor over several months.
Long-term TBI Care
Severe TBIs can have lasting effects on your functionality. As such, it can be difficult to live with the condition without the support and guidance of doctors. Here are some of the most common issues people with TBIs experience.
Memory Problems
Many people with TBIs suffer from memory-related issues, such as forgetting important tasks at home and work, losing important items, and difficulty recalling information. Some ways to improve memory problems include:
- Having a structured routine on a daily basis
- Using checklists, calendars, lists, and schedules as aids
- Discussing medications with your doctor that could be affecting your memory
Difficulty Completing Complex Tasks
People with TBIs can find it difficult to complete complex tasks, such as cooking, driving, or doing laundry. You can also find it difficult to solve problems or challenges in routine life because your analytical and problem-solving skills are impaired. Your doctor can recommend techniques, exercises, and medications to help with these problems. They can also refer you to rehabilitative experts such as physical therapists and occupational therapists who can help you gradually improve.
Depression
Some people who suffer from TBIs develop depression and anxiety related to self-consciousness and the inability to do the activities they once enjoyed. This can cause some to feel worthless, sad, and hopeless. It can also cause you to lose interest in activities, lack energy, and be withdrawn from loved ones. Depression can also make you feel tired all the time, have trouble concentrating, and cause you to move more slowly. An experienced therapist or psychologist with experience treating patients with TBIs can help you deal with depression through medication, talk therapy, and other solutions.
Traumatic Brain Injury Treatment in Lone Tree, Parker, Colorado Springs, and Aurora, CO
If you suffer from a traumatic brain injury and would like to talk to experienced professionals about the long-term effects you’re experiencing, look no further than Front Range Spine and Neurosurgery. Our neurosurgeons have a wealth of experience dealing with all types of traumatic brain injuries and can help you get a handle of yours. Call us at (303) 790-1800 to make an appointment today. You can also request an appointment online.
