Mild traumatic brain injuries are more common than many realize. While many know about concussions among competitive athletes, you don’t have to play a sport to experience a mild traumatic brain injury.

Anyone can experience a traumatic brain injury (TBI). A 2019 study published in the journal JAMA Insights noted that mild traumatic brain injuries (mTBIs) are the most common type of TBI. Despite their classification as “mild,” mTBIs can cause physical, cognitive, and social or emotional symptoms. Recognizing the signs of mTBIs may encourage individuals with these injuries to seek medical care, which can help make life more manageable until symptoms improve. 

Physical Symptoms: The physical symptoms of an mTBI can affect balance, vision, and other functions. Such symptoms include: 

  • Bothered by light or noise. The Optometrists Network (ON) reports that 40% of individuals who have suffered a brain injury are sensitive to light. 
  • Dizziness or balance problems. The Model Systems Knowledge Translation Center (MSKTC) reports that balance issues are common among people who have experienced TBI. A TBI can affect parts of the brain that control movement, which can make it hard for people to maintain their balance. 
  • Feeling tired, no energy. The Brain Injury Association of America reports that 98% of people who have experienced a TBI have some form of fatigue. Many say it is the most challenging symptom they experience after a TBI. 
  • Headache. The MSKTC notes that headaches like migraines, tension headaches, and cervicogenic headaches, which can start in the neck, shoulders, and back of the head before traveling over the top of the head, are common after a TBI. 
  • Nausea or vomiting. This is common, particularly in the immediate aftermath of suffering the injury. 
  • Vision problems. The ON notes that blurred or double vision, difficulty with eye movements, focus issues, and tracking difficulties are common vision problems associated with TBIs. 

Cognitive Issues: Some people experience cognitive problems after a TBI that impact thinking and memory. These issues may include difficulties concentrating, feeling slowed down, experiencing foggy or groggy sensations, having trouble with short- or long-term memory, and struggling to think clearly. 

Social or Emotional Issues: After a TBI, people may experience various social or emotional symptoms. The Brain Injury Association states these occur because TBIs can damage parts of the brain that regulate emotions. Others may develop these symptoms due to living with the effects of the TBI. After a TBI, individuals might feel anxious and nervous, irritable, emotional, easily angered, and sad. 

The BIA notes that anyone experiencing social or emotional symptoms after a TBI can see a clinical neuropsychologist or clinical psychologist to evaluate their condition and create coping strategies that may be crucial in managing these symptoms.