Understanding Brain Injuries: Types and Symptoms

What Is a Brain Injury?

A brain injury is any trauma that affects the brain’s normal functioning. It may result from external force (traumatic) or internal factors like oxygen deprivation or infection (non-traumatic).

There are two primary categories:

• Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) – Caused by external force, such as a blow or jolt to the head.

• Acquired (Non-Traumatic) Brain Injury – Caused by internal factors, such as stroke, lack of oxygen, or infections.

Types of Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)

1. Concussion

• Definition: A mild TBI caused by a blow to the head or body that causes the brain to shake.

• Common Causes: Falls, sports injuries, car accidents.

• Symptoms:

  • Headache

  • Confusion

  • Dizziness

  • Temporary memory loss

  • Light sensitivity

2. Contusion

• Definition: A bruise on the brain caused by direct impact.

• Common Causes: Head trauma in car accidents or physical assaults.

• Symptoms:

  • Cognitive difficulties

  • Speech problems

  • Numbness or tingling

3. Coup-Contrecoup Injury

• Definition: Injury on both sides of the brain due to a forceful impact.

• Example: Hitting your head against a dashboard and the brain rebounding inside the skull.

• Symptoms:

  • Seizures

  • Trouble concentrating

  • Emotional instability

4. Diffuse Axonal Injury (DAI)

• Definition: Widespread damage to brain cells from violent shaking or rotation.

• Common Causes: Car crashes, shaken baby syndrome.

• Symptoms:

  • Loss of consciousness

  • Coma

  • Long-term disability

Types of Acquired (Non-Traumatic) Brain Injuries

1. Anoxic Brain Injury

• Definition: Brain damage from a complete lack of oxygen.

• Causes: Cardiac arrest, drowning, respiratory failure.

• Symptoms:

  • Memory loss

  • Motor skill impairment

  • Vision problems

2. Hypoxic Brain Injury

• Definition: Brain damage from reduced oxygen supply.

• Causes: Stroke, low blood pressure, anesthesia complications.

• Symptoms:

  • Cognitive decline

  • Behavioral changes

  • Fatigue

3. Stroke

• Definition: Disruption in blood flow to the brain.

• Types: Ischemic (blockage) and hemorrhagic (bleed).

• Symptoms:

  • Sudden numbness

  • Slurred speech

  • One-sided weakness

4. Brain Tumors and Infections

• Infections like meningitis and encephalitis, or tumors, can also lead to acquired brain injury.

• Symptoms vary but often include:

  • Seizures

  • Personality changes

  • Headaches

Symptoms of Brain Injuries: What to Watch For

Symptoms may appear immediately or develop over time. Recognizing them early can save lives and prevent further damage.

Mild Symptoms

• Headache

• Nausea or vomiting

• Fatigue

• Sleep disturbances

• Sensitivity to noise/light

Moderate to Severe Symptoms

• Loss of consciousness

• Persistent headache

• Repeated vomiting

• Seizures

• Slurred speech

• Clear fluids draining from nose or ears

• Inability to wake up

• Profound confusion

• Agitation or combativeness

When to Seek Medical Attention

You should always seek immediate medical attention if you or someone you know experiences:

• Any loss of consciousness

• Persistent or worsening symptoms

• Difficulty speaking, walking, or thinking clearly

• Seizures or convulsions

• Head trauma followed by confusion, nausea, or blurred vision

Prompt treatment can minimize damage and increase the chance of recovery.

How Brain Injuries Are Diagnosed

Diagnosis typically involves:

• Neurological exam – Testing memory, coordination, and reflexes

• Imaging tests – CT scans or MRIs to assess internal damage

• Cognitive assessments – Evaluating memory, attention, and problem-solving

Understanding the Long-Term Effects

Brain injuries can have lasting impacts, including:

• Personality changes

• Chronic headaches

• Depression and anxiety

• Difficulty with speech, mobility, or memory

• Increased risk of dementia and Parkinson’s disease

The severity of long-term effects depends on the type of injury, how quickly it was treated, and the area of the brain affected.

How Dashner Law Firm Can Help

Understanding the types of brain injuries and recognizing their symptoms are key steps in promoting recovery and preventing further damage. Awareness and education are our best tools in managing the risks associated with brain injuries and supporting those affected towards a path of recovery. Whether you are a caregiver, a family member, or someone at risk, staying informed can make all the difference.

If you’re seeking expert legal representation and dedicated support after car accident that caused a brain injury in Texas, contact Dashner Law Firm today. Our team of experienced brain injury attorneys in Irving, TX can help protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve. Let us guide you through your legal journey with confidence and care.