Symptoms
Suffering from a traumatic brain injury or any other form of brain damage can have a significant impact on one’s life. It is important to be able to detect symptoms quickly in order to receive timely medical care.
There are many signs and symptoms that can indicate brain damage. In this article, we will explore the most common signs and symptoms of brain damage:
Headaches
Headaches are a common symptom that can be caused by a variety of conditions. It is important to consider the type and location of your headache, as well as its severity and frequency. If your headache is severe or is accompanied by other symptoms, it is important to seek medical treatment from your doctor.
Headaches can be classified according to cause (primary or secondary) and type. Primary headaches are caused by the direct action on pain-sensitive structures in the head, such as the muscles, arteries, fasciae and dural coverings of the brain, face or neck. These include: tension-type headaches; migraine; cluster headaches; and other types of primary headaches such as trigeminal autonomic cephalgias (TACs), which can involve muscle spasms in the face, they usually respond well to medications such as muscle relaxers.
Secondary headaches are caused by an underlying condition or illness. These include:
- medication-overuse headaches;
- sexual activity headaches;
- temporal arteritis (inflammation of an artery at the side of the head);
- infection causes such as sinusitis, meningitis (infection of fluid around brain), brain abscess (collection of pus), brain tumor or increased pressure in skull due to a hemorrhage;
- neck injury such trauma resulting from a car accident or whiplash injury;
- metabolic causes such low glucose levels from hypoglycemia (low blood sugar);
- hormonal causes such premenstrual tension syndrome;
- inflammation within ear and/or eye socket structure known as temporal arteritis (inflammation which affects blood vessels);
- facial nerve problems surrounding mouth which can cause facial pain/numbness known Bells Palsy viral infections causing paralysis/lengthy recovery
- chronic fatigue syndrome
- hormone imbalances caused by menopause
- organ system disorders like stroke or tumour
- Drug misuse anabolic steroids hallucinogens withdrawal from alcohol cannabis cocaine nicotine amphetamine sedative hypnotics opiates benzodiazepines complex regional pain syndrome
Dizziness
Dizziness is a common symptom that can have a range of causes. It can be the result of a medical condition, an underlying psychological disorder, or an adverse reaction to certain medications. It can also occur due to functional challenges of the inner ear, dehydration and lack of electrolytes, physical inactivity, blood pressure changes from standing up too quickly (orthostatic hypotension), fatigue, or anxiety.
Some dizziness is fleeting and others may last for several days without clear cause or relief. To confidently make a diagnosis and treatment plan, it is important to identify any co-existing symptoms such as partial loss of hearing or balance issues that may accompany dizziness. Additionally, determining whether you have experienced any underlying stressors or medical conditions will enable your healthcare provider to make a differential diagnosis:
- Underlying stressors
- Medical conditions
Memory Loss
Memory loss, or the loss of ability to remember past events or information, is a common and often distressing symptom of many conditions. While it can be caused by a wide range of physical and psychological issues, memory loss is most commonly linked to aging. Progressive memory loss can also occur due to Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, or other neurodegenerative diseases.
Often associated with progressive memory loss are confusion, struggling to carry out everyday activities (such as grocery shopping), difficulty finding the right words for conversations and conversations about topics that were previously discussed (often referred to as “tip-of-the-tongue” syndrome). Memory difficulties include difficulty remembering new information that has been recently learned and forgetfulness when attempting to recall facts from the long-term memory. These issues may be further accompanied by changes in behavior or personality such as increased distraction and impaired problem solving skills.
If you have noticed any signs of memory loss in yourself or someone else it is important to seek medical advice immediately. A professional may be able to identify a medical cause of the symptoms while providing appropriate treatments and lifestyle modifications which may help improve memory function.
Speech Difficulties
Speech can be affected by brain damage, resulting in difficulties producing and understanding language. Vision issues, hearing challenges, judgement problems and physical issues such as muscle weakness and coordination challenges can also interfere with speech.
Difficulties communicating usually appear gradually over time, even if the person has suffered a traumatic brain injury (TBI). It can take months or even years for brain damage to manifest itself through impairments in language. Some signs to look for include:
- Inability to understand what others are saying
- Slowing of speaking rate
- Slurring words or mixing up sentences
- Trouble thinking of the right word
- Speaking softly or at a monotone rate
- Omitting words or cutting off endings of words
- Conversational difficulties due to processing challenges
If you’ve experienced any of these symptoms on an ongoing basis for more than a few weeks, consider consulting with a neurologist for further examination. Brain damage can be caused by anything from mild head trauma to TBIs, strokes and drug abuse, so it is important to get professional medical assistance if you suspect something is wrong.
Cognitive Impairment
Cognitive impairment is one of the most noticeable symptoms of brain damage and can significantly interfere with an individual’s ability to complete everyday tasks. Common signs of cognitive difficulties include memory loss, difficulty concentrating, disorientation and confusion.
Many individuals who are struggling with cognitive impairment will have difficulty organizing their thoughts or even understanding what someone else is trying to say to them. It can be difficult for them to focus on a conversation or task without getting easily distracted by external stimuli. They may also experience deficits in executive functioning such as planning and problem-solving, making it hard for them to manage day-to-day activities or adhere to their routines. In addition, they may struggle with a loss of concentration that renders it almost impossible for them to multitask.
People affected by cognitive impairment may also suffer from changes in their behavior patterns and have trouble controlling their emotions.
Diagnosis
If you suspect you may have suffered brain damage, the first step is to seek out medical attention to determine what your diagnosis may be. Brain damage can be caused by a variety of things including a fall, motor vehicle accident, stroke, or even a disease.
There are a few different ways to diagnose brain damage such as by performing scans, neurological exams, and psychological testing. Knowing the cause of the brain damage and the extent of the damage is essential for treatment and for understanding prognosis.
Physical Exam
Your doctor may perform a physical exam to detect signs of brain damage or to help rule out potential causes. This will involve reviewing your medical history and doing a thorough physical exam, including taking detailed measurements of your vital signs such as temperature, pulse, and respiration rate. They may examine your head and neck for signs of head trauma or stroke. Your doctor may also pay special attention to your eyes, ears, and mouth to determine if any sensory deficits are present.
Neurological tests such as the Glasgow Coma Scale can be used to measure certain brain functions such as reflexes, reactions, coordination, memory and balance. Depending on the results of these tests, further testing may be recommended. These could include imaging tests such as computed tomography (CT) scans or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans which can provide detailed images of the brain structure in order to detect any abnormalities including damage resulting from a stroke or traumatic injury. Other tests include X-rays or ultrasound scans to look for swelling or blood clots in the brain.
Neuropsychological Testing
Neuropsychological testing is a commonly used tool to assess the integrity of a person’s mental functioning, including their cognitive, emotional, and behavioral processes. This type of assessment provides an objective measure of an individual’s psychological capacities through the administration of standardized tests and tasks designed to measure specific functions.
Neuropsychological testing can be used to diagnose medical conditions such as brain tumors, strokes, multiple sclerosis, traumatic brain injury (TBI), and dementia. Additionally, it can help differentiate between medical and psychological causes of diseases or disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease or depression.
Neuropsychological assessment can include measures of:
- General intellectual ability (IQ tests)
- Attention/concentration skills
- Executive functioning (flexible problem solving) abilities
- Memory function
- Visual perception/spatial skills
- Academic skills
- Personality inventory assessments (may also be included depending on the purpose of the assessment).
Typically the results from each test are analyzed together to create a comprehensive picture in order to arrive at the most accurate diagnosis or provide recommendations for treatment plans.
Imaging Tests
Imaging tests, such as x-rays, computed tomography (CT) scans, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans and ultrasound, help your doctor see inside your body. These scans create pictures of the structures inside your body that can help diagnose potential issues.
X-rays are most valuable for diagnosing certain conditions of the bones and joints. They can also be used to diagnose conditions that affect the lungs and other organs of the chest cavity. X-rays are not appropriate for soft tissues in the body such as muscles, visceral organs or blood vessels.
CT scans use x-ray technology to take cross-sectional images at various angles around a single point in the body. This allows doctors to create detailed 3D images of internal organs and tissues. CT scans are often used when a patient has an injury or illness related to their digestive system, lungs and pelvis since they can provide more detailed images than traditional x-rays.
MRI works by creating a magnetic field around the body which enables doctors to view detailed cross-sectional images with greater levels of clarity than other tests provide. MRIs useful in diagnosing diseases of soft tissue organs like spinal cord abnormalities, tumors or neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer’s or dementia.
Ultrasound is an imaging technique that uses sound waves instead of radiation to create pictures inside the body without any damage to tissue or cells from radiation exposure like other types of imaging tests do. Ultrasounds can be used during pregnancy as well as many other medical uses including internal tissue pain source determination and organ function evaluation such as kidney function tests and heart scanning for murmur detection.
Blood Tests
Blood tests are an important tool used to diagnose if a person has brain damage. A variety of substances can be measured in the blood to provide information on how the brain is functioning and possible signs of damage. These tests usually measure electrolytes, minerals, enzymes, hormones, and metabolites that can be used to assess brain health. Additionally, blood tests can indicate whether someone has had recent trauma or a stroke.
Fluid-filled cavities in the head and spine hold cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). CSF is composed of a wide array of elements that can tell doctors about a patient’s condition. Imaging studies such as X-rays and CT scans may also be ordered to show any structural changes within the brain or any abnormal growths in the tissue or around the brain itself.
Additional diagnostics such as:
- EEGs (electroencephalography recordings)
- PET scans (positron emission tomography images)
- MRIs (magnetic resonance imaging scans)
may be used if there are more complex signs and symptoms that suggest potential permanent long-term effects from an injury or neurological condition. With these tests, doctors are able to look at actual changes happening in the cells of the nervous system that could indicate various forms of physical trauma, such as intercranial pressure change or disruption of electrical activity due to healing from infection, injury or prolonged illness.
Treatment
If you think you may have sustained brain damage due to an injury or another medical condition, it is important to seek medical treatment right away. There are a variety of treatments available depending on the severity and type of brain damage, but it is important to get an accurate diagnosis first.
This article will explain the different treatment options for brain damage and how to find the right one for you:
Medication
In some cases, medications such as antipsychotics and antidepressants can be helpful in treating symptoms of brain damage. While these drugs can help reduce the symptoms caused by brain damage they do not treat the underlying cause. It’s important to consult with a doctor specialized in neurology when considering medications as treatment for brain damage. This is especially true when considering powerful antipsychotic drugs like Haloperidol or Clozapine, as these drugs carry many risks and side effects.
Other possible therapies for symptoms of brain damage include:
- Physical therapy
- Occupational therapy
- Speech and language therapy
- Cognitive rehabilitation
- Cognitive behavioral therapy
Each patient may require different combinations of medication along with one or more approaches from the above list to manage symptoms effectively. A thorough evaluation by a physician trained in neurology is necessary to determine which treatments are most appropriate for each patient’s condition.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy is a form of treatment focused on promoting healing and improving function. It typically involves physical exercises, manual techniques and modalities such as heat, ice, ultrasound, electrical stimulation and cold. Physical therapists are professionals who specialize in rehabilitative care of many types of physical injuries or conditions that limit movement and functional abilities.
Physical therapists assess a patient’s condition to determine their care plan and develop an individualized plan of treatment. They use various physical treatments to reduce pain, improve movement and help the patient maintain flexibility. Physical therapy may include:
- Therapeutic exercises for strength building
- Stretching for increased joint range of motion
- Posture correction
- Tissue massage
- Use of heat or cold to relieve pain
Physical therapists also provide education on posture correction, ergonomics information to promote safe movement at home or in activities of daily living. They may also provide assistive devices such as wheelchairs or splints if needed.
Occupational Therapy
Occupational therapy is a type of rehabilitation that works to address function-based deficits in areas such as physical coordination, balance, strength and mobility due to illness, injury or other neurologically-based complicatons. Occupational therapists use an individualized approach that takes into account a patient’s lifestyle and home life, focusing on goals that will help the patient restore lost skills and learn methods for comprehensive independent living.
The primary goal of occupational therapy is to make it possible for people with brain damage or neurological conditions to live as independently as possible. Through the concentration of personalized activities and tasks, the therapist can differentiate underlying challenges related to memory or physical challenges associated with brain damage. Ordinary activities such as brushing teeth or dressing may become difficult challenges after a stroke or injury; occupational therapists work at helping you relearn these activities in order to lead an active life.
In addition to helping motor skills improve, occupational therapy can aid patients in accessing psychological services that can help manage
- anxiety
- depression
- trauma
- other related emotional challenges
The goal is to ultimately help regain control over daily living inside the home environment. With individualized treatment plans built around both cognitive activity and healthy physical activity combined with emotional support techniques patients can return back home feeling accepted, positive about their condition and equipped with helpful strategies for successful independent living.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a type of talk therapy used to treat various mental health conditions. The most common form of CBT focuses on identifying and targeting a range of behaviors and thought patterns linked to negative emotions or irrational beliefs. By challenging these thought patterns and beliefs, patients can gain an understanding of their underlying issues and learn new strategies for dealing with them.
This type of talk therapy typically involves exploring emotions, thoughts, experiences and behaviors under the guidance of a qualified therapist. The therapist will help identify problematic behaviors or thought processes that are associated with distress and aid in developing healthier ones. They may also give advice on how to deal with specific situations that might trigger negative emotions or reactions.
CBT can be used effectively by itself or in conjunction with other treatments such as medication, to address depression, anxiety, PTSD, phobias, substance abuse problems and more. By helping people come to terms with their feelings and thoughts while learning new techniques to cope with difficulties they may experience in life, CBT is seen as a successful treatment for many mental health disorders.
Prevention
Brain damage can range from temporary to permanent and can occur as a result of trauma to the head, exposure to toxic substances, or a stroke.
The best way to prevent brain damage is to practice safety precautions such as wearing a helmet when engaging in activities with the potential for head trauma and avoiding exposure to known or suspected toxins. Additionally, maintaining healthy lifestyles like eating a balanced diet and exercising regularly can help reduce the risk of stroke.
Wear Protective Gear
It is important to wear protective gear to lessen the chance of suffering a traumatic brain injury (TBI). Helmets are an important piece of safety gear for activities such as biking, skiing, snowboarding, skateboarding and horseback riding. Many sports mandate helmets for all participants, such as softball, hockey and lacrosse; while in football they may only be required for certain positions. Apart from sports equipment like shin guards, face masks or mouth guards these should also be worn while taking part in a contact sport that has the potential to cause harm to your head and neck.
In addition to helmets, motorcyclists can reduce their risk of a TBI by wearing long sleeves and pants made with thick material which will act as a buffer if they come into contact with the pavement after an accident. It is advisable for anyone operating or riding on two or three-wheeled motors such as motorcycles and mopeds also to wear goggles or a full face helmet. Finally it’s important do not get behind the wheel when drinking alcohol – being impaired considerably increases your chances of getting into an accident that could potentially lead to a TBI.
Avoid High-Risk Activities
The following activities should be avoided to reduce the chances of incurring brain damage:
- Playing contact sports, especially those with a high risk of head injury.
- Driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Operating heavy machinery or power tools without appropriate training and supervision.
- Indulging in risky recreational activities, such as bungee jumping, parachuting, and downhill mountain biking.
- Using unsafe firearms or explosives in any location, even when supervised.
- Engaging in illegal drug use and/or activity such as stealing, robbery or shoplifting.
- Allowing young children to ride ATVs or other off highway vehicles that are not appropriate for their age or ability level.
It is important to note that there are many medical conditions that can cause brain damage without any external trauma, including strokes, tumors, infections and other diseases. Being aware of the potential risks and taking precautionary measures can help protect you from potential brain damage caused by hazardous activities as well as medical causes.
Get Regular Checkups
Although there is no definitive way to detect brain damage, it is still important to consult with a medical professional if you are concerned about possible brain injury. One of the best ways to reduce your risk for developing a neurodegenerative disease or suffering from other types of brain damage is through prevention.
Receiving regular checkups can help you catch any signs of brain damage early. During checkups, your doctor may conduct several tests such as an MRI scan or CT scan, physical examination, speech and memory tests, or an EEG to monitor your EEG activity. All of these tests can be used to detect potential signs of neurological decline before they become more serious issues.
In addition, make sure that you practice healthy lifestyle habits such as participating in physical activity and eating a balanced diet. Additionally, take the necessary precautionary measures when performing activities that increase your risk for serious head trauma such as wearing protective equipment while playing sports and wearing seat belts in vehicles.
By engaging in regular preventative care for your brain health and following the tips outlined above you can lower the likelihood that you experience any type of brain trauma or long-term damage from a previous injury or condition.
Get Adequate Sleep
Getting adequate sleep is an important part of maintaining brain health. When we are asleep, our brains clear out waste materials, process information and consolidate memories. Inadequate sleep can lead to mood changes, higher levels of stress hormones, and impaired decision making. Long-term sleep deprivation has even been associated with increased risks for developing mental illness such as anxiety disorders or depression.
It is important to make sure you are getting enough quality sleep each night, which can vary from individual to individual. Most adults should aim for 7-8 hours per night of uninterrupted sleep on a consistent basis. If you find it difficult to get a good night’s rest, it may be helpful to look at the environment you’re sleeping in and the habits you have prior bedtime.
Important tips include:
- Avoiding blue light from screens before bedtime.
- Having a consistent bedtime routine that prepares your body for restful sleep.
If your issues persist, talk to your doctor about other possible interventions that may help improve the quality of your sleep.
