Brain Injury: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Medically reviewed by Sumiran Racherla, MD, Internal Medicine. Last reviewed: October 23, 2026.

What kind of doctor treats Brain Injury?

Emergency doctors treat the injury first, then a neurologist (a brain and nerve doctor) helps with recovery care. Severe cases may involve a neurosurgeon (a brain surgeon) and a rehabilitation team with physical and occupational therapists. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.

What is brain injury?

A traumatic brain injury (TBI) happens when the head hits an object, or a moving object strikes the head. A strong outside force can move the brain inside the skull. The brain can bounce or twist. Its chemistry can change, and brain cells can be damaged. A TBI can affect how the brain works for a while or, in severe cases, for life.

There are three types. A mild TBI is also called a concussion. The others are moderate and severe TBI. Mild TBIs do not always cause a person to pass out. Most people never do. Moderate to severe TBIs can cause lasting health problems.

Symptoms

Symptoms differ for each person and can change during recovery. Some show up a few days or weeks later. A milder TBI or concussion can cause:

  • Headache.
  • Nausea and vomiting.
  • Confusion, trouble concentrating, or not thinking clearly.
  • Memory loss of events before or right after the injury.
  • Light sensitivity or seeing flashing lights.

Mental and emotional changes can also occur. They include mood swings, depression, anxiety, and irritability. Sleep patterns can change too.

Causes and who gets it

Falls are the most common cause of TBIs. They happen most often among the youngest and oldest age groups. Blunt trauma such as sports injuries is a leading cause too. So are injuries involving cars, bicycles, and pedestrians. Assaults or violence, including gunshot wounds, also cause them. Blast trauma has become a common injury for service members in military conflicts.

Adults 65 and older are at greatest risk of being hospitalized or dying from a TBI. This is most often from a fall. In every age group, serious TBI rates are higher for men than for women.

How doctors diagnose it

All TBIs should be checked right away by a professional experienced with these injuries. A neurological exam tests movement, senses, speech, coordination, balance, and mental status. Doctors use brain imaging such as a CT scan, which can show a skull fracture and any bruising, bleeding, or swelling. An MRI can pick up more subtle brain changes. Neuropsychological tests may measure memory and concentration.

Treatment

Some people with a mild TBI need only rest and over-the-counter pain relievers. Treatment focuses on easing symptoms and rest. Follow your doctor's plan for rest and a gradual return to normal activities, because doing too much too soon can make recovery take longer. A doctor should monitor the person for new or worsening symptoms. Children and teens with a sports concussion must stop playing until a specialist approves a return.

Medicines may include pain relievers, anticonvulsant drugs to treat seizures, diuretics to reduce fluid buildup and pressure in the brain, and antidepressants or anti-anxiety medicines. Severe TBI needs emergency care that protects the brain. Surgery may be needed to relieve pressure inside the skull, remove blood clots or dead tissue, or repair skull fractures. After hospital care, people with severe TBI often go to a rehabilitation center. There a team of doctors, nurses, psychologists, and physical and occupational therapists helps with recovery.

When to see a doctor

Call 911 or go to an emergency room right away if a head injury causes passing out, a change in alertness, being very sleepy or hard to wake, or confusion that does not go away or gets worse. Also call for seizures, weakness on one or both sides of the body, unequal pupil size, repeated vomiting, trouble walking or speaking, fluid or blood leaking from the nose or ears, or a headache that keeps getting worse.

How a direct primary care or concierge doctor fits in

A direct primary care doctor charges a flat monthly fee instead of billing insurance, while a concierge doctor usually charges more and often works alongside insurance. Either can track your recovery at unhurried follow-up visits, watch for symptoms that show up late, and coordinate the neurologist or rehabilitation team. They can also help you plan a safe return to school, work, and sports.

Common questions

Is a concussion a traumatic brain injury?

Yes. A mild TBI is also called a concussion. Even a mild one should be checked, because some symptoms show up days or weeks later.

How long does recovery take?

It may take days to weeks, or even months. Most people recover from a first concussion within a few weeks. Recovery from a second or third one is generally slower.

Can brain injuries be prevented?

Not all of them, but many can. Wear a seatbelt. Wear the right helmet for the activity. Never drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Make home changes that prevent falls, such as removing trip hazards and installing handrails.

What is brain rest?

Brain rest means cutting back on activities that need concentration or attention while a mild TBI heals. Follow your doctor's plan for rest and a gradual return to normal activities, because doing too much too soon can make recovery take longer.

Sources

  1. MedlinePlus - Traumatic brain injury: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia
  2. MedlinePlus - Traumatic Brain Injury | TBI
  3. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke - Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition, and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.