Mild TBI Awareness: 13 Symptoms to Help Identify a Concussion

Courtesy of Defense and Veterans Brain Injury Center. View DVBIC TBI PSA on American Forces Network 1.

A mild traumatic brain injury (TBI), also known as a concussion, is the most common form of TBI. It happens when a person experiences a brief change in mental status or consciousness as a result of a blow or jolt to the head, or penetrating head injury. There are also moderate and severe forms of TBI, where an extended period of unconsciousness or amnesia after injury can occur.

Individuals who sustain a concussion usually see their symptoms improve rapidly, within a few hours to a couple days, and have complete recovery within one to three months. However, the rate at which an individual recovers depends on many factors, including their age and the general health at the time of injury. Getting appropriate evaluation and medical care soon after the injury may often reduce the side effects and lead to a successful recovery.

Below are 13 common symptoms to help recognize a concussion:

1) Headaches that do not go away

2) Difficulty remembering, concentrating or making decisions 

3) Thinking, speaking, acting or reading slowly 

4) Getting lost or easily confused 

5) Feeling tired all of the time, having no energy or motivation 

6) Mood changes (feeling sad or angry for no reason) 

7) Changes in sleep patterns (sleeping a lot more or having a hard time sleeping) 

8) Light-headedness, dizziness or loss of balance 

9) Increased sensitivity to light, sound or distractions 

10) Blurred vision or eyes that tire easily 

11) Loss of sense of smell or taste 

13) Ringing in the ears

It's important to know the signs and symptoms of a concussion both on and off the battlefield. A TBI can happen because of trips or falls, assaults, motor vehicle crashes or sports-related injuries. You can find additional information about traumatic brain injury from the Defense and Veterans Brain Injury Center (DVBIC) at dvbic.org or call 800-870-9244.