What is MTBI, or Mild Traumatic Brain Injury?
The Center for Disease Control and Prevention defines a case of MTBI as "the occurrence of injury to the head arising from blunt trauma," or with the occurrence of confusion, dysfunction, loss of consciousness, seizures, and other conditions that attribute to the head injury.
MTBI is considered one of the most common neurologic disorders. Often the term concussion is used interchangeably with MTBI. However, a concussion may occur without the loss of consciousness.
Diagnosis
Diagnosing MTBIs is sometimes challenging because the symptoms can be seen in many other common medical conditions. Symptoms may occur days, weeks, or even months after the head injury.
Symptoms
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Cognitive Symptoms
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Physical Symptoms
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Attention difficulties
Concentration problems
Memory problems
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Headaches
Dizziness
Insomnia
Fatigue
Uneven gait
Nausea
Blurred vision
Seizures
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Children can have the same symptoms as adults however, they may have a harder time communicating how they feel. Symptoms to watch for in children include:
- tiring easily
- crankiness
- change in eating and sleeping patterns
- change in the way they interact with other children
- academic performance changes
- lack of interest in favorite toys
- loss of new skills
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loss of balance
Long-Term Problems
Long-term problems that could develop if medical attention is not sought after may include:
- Persistent headaches
- Confusion
- Pain
- Memory Problems
- Fatigue
- Changes in Sleep Patterns
- Mood Changes
- Sensory Problems