Symptoms of moderate to severe traumatic brain injury

Traumatic brain injuries from motor vehicle collisions can range in severity. A concussion is an example of a mild traumatic brain injury that usually resolves on its own. TBI can also be moderate or severe.

Because the brain controls all functions of the body and the mind, TBI symptoms can vary based on the areas of the brain affected. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention describes some of the types of symptoms that a moderate to severe TBI could cause.

Behavior

Damage to the brain from a TBI could affect the way a patient acts. He or she could become more impulsive than usual, having difficulty controlling his or her behavior as a result. A patient with a moderate to severe TBI could also exhibit changes in his or her personality.

Emotion

A moderate to severe TBI could cause symptoms of depression and sadness as well as anxiety or nervousness. It could cause increased feelings of aggression or anger, or it could result in a heightened emotional state overall.

Motor skills

A person with a moderate to severe TBI could experience problems with balance and coordination that make intentional movement more difficult. Nerve damage could cause the legs and arms to become weak, which could also impede motion.

Sensory perception

Problems with hearing and vision are common effects of TBI. However, the injury could cause changes in any of the senses, including touch, taste or smell, depending on the area of the brain affected.

Cognitive difficulties

A TBI can affect a patient’s ability to think and process information. In particular, it can cause problems concentrating and thinking clearly. It can affect a patient’s ability to learn and remember information and communicate with others.

If a TBI is moderate to severe, these symptoms may be permanent.