Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is one of the most common medical conditions faced by returning Iraq and Afghanistan combat vets.

A traumatic brain injury occurs when a person’s brain is physically injured, usually by a sudden force. With military members, this is often the result of a concussive blast or explosion. It can also be caused by falls, motor vehicle accidents, assaults, or any sudden blow to the head. Because the damage is internal, there may be no visible head wound.

Although TBI has been called the signature injury of the Global War on Terror, it is not a new condition, and it is not unique to those serving in the military.

The Centers for Disease Control estimates that 1.4 million TBIs occur every year in the US, with about six percent resulting in long term disability. In prior conflicts, approximately 14 to 20 percent of surviving casualties had a TBI.

Every brain injury is unique and symptoms can vary widely. Damage to different parts of the brain will result in different symptoms. TBI shares symptoms with other physical and mental health conditions, such as post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which complicates diagnosis.

Below are some of the symptoms. Having some of them, however, does not necessarily mean a person has TBI. It’s always best to seek the advice of your doctor or other medical professionals if you believe you’re experiencing symptoms of TBI.

If you’re diagnosed with TBI and served in the military, you also may be eligible for VA benefits.

Common Symptoms Immediately After Injury

  • Being Dazed, confused, or “seeing stars”
  • Not remembering the injury
  • Losing consciousness (being knocked out)

Common Symptoms Later On

  • Persistent headache or neck pain
  • Sensitivity to light and noise
  • Loss of balance
  • Changes in sleep patterns
  • Feeling tired all the time, lacking energy
  • Ringing in the ears
  • Loss of sense of smell and taste
  • Slowness in thinking, acting, speaking or reading
  • Symptoms that may appear to be mental health conditions
    • Sudden mood changes for little or no reason
    • Difficulty managing relationships
    • Chronic anxiety, depression, apathy
  • Short term memory loss
  • Getting lost or easily confused
  • Having more trouble than usual with
    • Paying attention or concentrating
    • Organizing daily tasks
    • Making decisions

Cedrian Wheeler
National Service Officer
VetsFirst