Knocked your head?
Mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) is an injury to the brain which results in interference with normal brain function. It is also known as a concussion. Owner and Occupational Therapist, Jonathon Somers discusses the symptoms and recovery time below.
mTBI is the result of a blow or force to the head, face or neck. mTBI’s are commonly caused by sporting accidents, car or motorbike accidents, work-place accidents, falls or during a fight.
When a mTBI happens, you may lose consciousness, your memory may be affected, and you may feel confused or disoriented. Other symptoms may also be experienced; however, these are usually temporary and gradually improve over time.
What are the symptoms?
- Headaches
- Fatigue or changed sleeping patterns
- Dizziness and Nausea
- Light and noise sensitivity
- Decreased tolerance to alcohol and drugs
- Difficulties concentrating
- Changes to short-term memory
- Communication difficulties
- Depression/emotional changes
How long will it take for me to recover?
Most people start to feel better within a few days of their mTBI and should be ‘back to normal’ within 1-4 weeks. Some people may experience ongoing symptoms for a longer period.
What should I do to promote recovery?
The key is to have a graded approach back to your normal life. This means gradually returning to the normal activities you were doing, such as work, exercise and screen time. If you return to doing these sorts of activities too quickly or too much at once it can prolong your recovery and symptoms. Your brain needs time to rest.
If you continue to feel unwell call and speak with one of the doctors here. You may need a referral to other hospital services to help you feel better.
