TBI Often Mistaken for Other Conditions
Every year, around 2.5 million Americans seek treatment in an emergency room for a traumatic brain injury. While that may seem like a large number, it almost certainly represents only a portion of those who suffer a TBI. The telltale signs of a traumatic brain injury may not show for days or even weeks, and many victims either treat themselves or seek care from a personal physician. Furthermore, many of the symptoms can be mistaken for other conditions.
Misdiagnosis of Traumatic Brain Injury
Conditions that commonly result from traumatic brain injury may be mistakenly attributed to some other cause:
- Balance issues, vertigo, or dizziness—These symptoms are not always the result of inner ear problems, as often believed, but can stem from TBI.
- Depression or anxiety—Doctors may attribute mood problems to a chemical imbalance or situational factors, but they can stem from a blow to the head.
- ADHD—The sudden appearance of attention deficit disorder symptoms can be TBI-related.
- Stroke—Though often attributed to high blood pressure, stress, or heart disorder, TBI can cause stroke, seizure, or TIA (transient ischemic attack, or “mini-stroke”).
- Neurological problems—Pain, discomfort, tingling, and burning sensations may mistakenly be attributed to more localized injuries but are often caused by a brain injury.
Because the symptoms are often difficult to observe, traumatic brain injury is commonly referred to as the “silent epidemic.” CT scans and MRIs can help medical professionals rule out other conditions, but they generally don’t allow for a definitive diagnosis. Instead, TBI is typically diagnosed through a comprehensive medical and neurological exam, including assessments of motor function, cognitive skills, sensory function, reflexes, and coordination.
Contact Us to Set Up an Appointment
At Advantage Healthcare Systems, we have extensive experience working successfully with individuals who suffer a concussion or other type of traumatic brain injury (TBI). Call us toll-free at 1-866-586-1755 or fill out the form provided below to schedule an assessment. We offer locations across Texas, including Fort Worth, Dallas, and San Antonio.
