What’s the difference between a concussion and a traumatic brain injury?

Traumatic brain injuries

A traumatic brain injury is caused by severe physical trauma. These brain injuries commonly develop as a result of a traumatic car accident or a severe head impact from a fall. When a person suffers a traumatic brain injury, they are usually knocked out for 30 minutes, followed by forgetfulness, nausea, and other neurological symptoms.

Symptoms of traumatic brain injury

• Losing consciousness
• Nausea and vomiting
• Head pain
• Seizures
• Fluid draining from the ears or nose
• Confusion
• Memory loss
• Loss of coordination
• Loss of sensation in the fingers and toes
• One or both pupils are dilated (wider than they should be)
• Agitation and irritability
• Slurred speech or speech that doesn’t make sense

Concussions

A concussion does not always result in a traumatic incident for the victim. In fact, the person who has had a concussion may not even be aware that he or she has been injured.

When a concussion has side effects that last for several days, weeks, or months, the injury is reclassified as a moderate traumatic brain injury. Multiple concussions in a row – such as those sustained when playing football or other contact sports – can greatly raise the chance of more serious side effects and long-term health concerns.

Symptoms of Concussions

• Headache or feeling pressure inside your head
• Confusion, disorientation, and memory problems
• Dizziness and nausea
• Slurred speech
• Fatigue, like you can’t stay awake
• Inability to sleep
• Behavior changes, such as irritability, uncontrolled crying, or anxiety
• Seizures