Mild brain injury is defined as any disruption of brain function, as evidenced by loss of consciousness, loss of memory of events before or during the trauma, or a change in emotional or mental state at the time of the accident. To be classified as mild brain injury, the patient must not experience post-traumatic amnesia for more than 24 hours, and loss of consciousness, if any, may not be longer than 30 minutes.
Causes of Mild Brain Injury
Mild brain injuries are never the result of stroke, tumor, encephalitis, or other diseases or weaknesses. Instead, mild brain injuries are most commonly the result of trauma caused by accidents such as:
- Car accidents
- Blows to the head, either accidentally or in violence
- Falls
- Sports-related accidents
- Motorcycle accidents
- Quick stops that cause whiplash
Symptoms of Mild Brain Injury
In many cases, symptoms present themselves after 24 hours. Symptoms of mild brain injury include:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Headache
- Vision disturbances
- Drowsiness and lethargy
- Dilated pupils
- Cognitive issues
- Behavioral and emotional changes
Prognosis of Mild Brain Injury
While minor complaints such as headache, dizziness, and some cognitive issues can persist up to a year after a mild head injury, the long-term prognosis is generally good. Most people who experience mild head injury go on to lead lives similar to those they had prior to the injury.