Southwest Florida's Health and Wellness Magazine Health and Wellness Articles
By Richard J. Capiola, MD
Mild traumatic brain injuries (mTBIs), often referred to as concussions, are commonly evaluated by psychiatrists and neurologists gists due to their potential impact on mental health and cognitive function. Mild traumatic brain injuries (mTBIs) present a complex spectrum of symptoms that can profoundly affect an individual’s daily functioning and overall well-being. While these injuries are often considered less severe compared to moderate or severe brain injuries, they can result in a range of cognitive, emotional, and behavioral manifestations that warrant careful evaluation and management.
Symptoms such as persistent headaches, dizziness, confusion, memory problems, irritability, anxiety, and sleep disturbances can significantly impact an individual’s ability to perform activities of daily living, including work, school, and social interactions. Recognizing the subtle yet impactful nature of these symptoms is essential for healthcare professionals in accurately diagnosing and effectively treating patients with mild traumatic brain injuries.
Causes of Mild Traumatic Brain Injuries: Mild traumatic brain injuries can occur due to a variety of factors, with the most common causes being falls, sports-related injuries, motor vehicle accidents, and assaults. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), falls are the leading cause of mTBIs, accounting for approximately 47% of all reported cases among adults aged 65 and older. Additionally, sports-related activities contribute significantly to mTBIs, particularly among young athletes participating in contact sports such as football, soccer, and basketball.
Symptoms of Mild Traumatic Brain Injuries: The symptoms of mild traumatic brain injuries can vary widely among individuals and may not always be immediately apparent. Common symptoms include headache, dizziness, confusion, fatigue, and memory problems. Patients may also experience changes in mood and behavior, such as irritability, anxiety, depression, and impulsivity. Sleep disturbances, including insomnia or excessive drowsiness, are also frequently reported following mTBIs. It is important to note that while these symptoms may initially seem mild or transient, they can sometimes persist for weeks or even months, affecting the individual’s overall well-being and functioning.
When to Seek Treatment for Mild Traumatic Brain Injuries: Patients who experience any symptoms suggestive of a mild traumatic brain injury should seek medical attention promptly, especially if the injury occurred as a result of a significant impact or trauma to the head. While some individuals may recover fully from mTBIs with rest and symptom management, others may require specialized treatment and rehabilitation to address persistent symptoms and prevent long-term complications. Prompt evaluation by a healthcare professional, such as a neurologist or neuropsychiatrist, is crucial for accurate diagnosis and appropriate management of mTBIs.
Diagnosis of Mild Traumatic Brain Injuries through the DSM-5: The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), provides diagnostic criteria for mild neurocognitive disorder, which may be applicable in cases of mild traumatic brain injuries with persistent cognitive and behavioral symptoms. To meet the criteria for mild neurocognitive disorder, the individual must exhibit evidence of mild cognitive decline from a previous level of performance in one or more cognitive domains, such as complex attention, executive function, memory, or social cognition. Additionally, these cognitive deficits must be evident in clinical assessment or neuropsychological testing and must interfere with independence in everyday activities.
Mild traumatic brain injuries can result in a range of behavioral manifestations that may significantly impact an individual’s quality of life and functioning. Prompt recognition and appropriate management of mTBIs are essential to optimize outcomes and prevent long-term complications. Healthcare professionals, including psychiatrists, neurologists, and neuropsychiatrists, play a vital role in evaluating and treating patients with mild traumatic brain injuries, ensuring comprehensive care that addresses both the physical and psychological aspects of recovery.
By staying informed about the causes, symptoms, and diagnostic criteria associated with mTBIs, healthcare professionals can effectively support patients in their journey toward recovery and improved well-being.
If you or someone you love is exhibiting signs of a mood disorder or other mental health issues, there is help in Southwest Florida. Dr. Richard Capiola, MD, is a board-certified psychiatrist with specialty certifications in addiction and forensic psychiatry and over 31 years of experience in the medical field. He graduated from Tulane University School of Medicine in 1990. Be sure to call ahead with Dr. Capiola to book an appointment.
Sources:
1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2021). Traumatic Brain Injury & Concussion. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/traumaticbraininjury/index.html
2. American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed.). Arlington, VA: American Psychiatric Publishing.
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