What is it about
Head trauma, also called traumatic brain injury, is a disorder in the functioning of the brain caused by a shock to the head.
How is the diagnosis made?
A head injury or traumatic brain injury is diagnosed when the shock to the head is followed by at least one of the following symptoms:
- loss of consciousness;
- memory loss regarding events that happened just before or just after the accident (post-traumatic amnesia);
- a change in mental state at the time of the accident;
- a neurological sign.
A blow to the head is therefore not enough to make the diagnosis of head trauma.
How to assess a head trauma and its consequences?
Assess for head trauma
If there is a head trauma, an assessment will take place. She understands :
- a questioning on the circumstances of the accident: how did it happen, was there loss of consciousness or loss of memory, if so, for how long, …;
- an assessment of the state of consciousness;
- a neurological examination: muscle strength, paralysis, sensations, reflexes, …
- an imaging test of the head: a CT scan or an MRI.
Depending on the state of consciousness, the duration of the memory loss, the duration of the disturbances of consciousness and the results of the imaging tests, the head trauma is said to be mild (concussion), moderate or severe.
Evaluate the consequences of a head trauma
This involves evaluating, for example,
- physical abilities;
- memory, concentration, reasoning, learning,…;
- mood;
- social functioning;
- professional operation.
All these elements will be regularly evaluated.
In the event of a mild head injury, it is important to reassure people and encourage them. This is how they will recover the best.
With mild to moderate head trauma, the majority of people recover sufficiently to lead active lives.
The situation may improve up to a year after the accident, or even later in children.
Evaluate the after-effects of a head trauma
The “sequelae” are the consequences that persist. These are mainly cognitive (memory, concentration, reasoning, learning,…) and psychic (depression, anxiety, impulsivity,…) after-effects. These effects can be a problem in everyday life.
What follow-up can be offered?
Treatment depends on complications and sequelae. It can be a psychological follow-up, for example in the event of mood disorder and of anxiety disorders or physiotherapy follow-up.
People who have suffered a more severe head trauma follow a rehabilitation program in a specialist head trauma unit, in a specialist rehabilitation service or through outpatient neurological consultations.
Consultation with the occupational physician is recommended for a successful gradual return to working life.
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