What is a traumatic brain injury?

A traumatic brain injury (TBI) is an injury to the brain caused typically (but not exclusively) by physical trauma. They can negatively impact many brain functions and cause a variety of health issues, including vision issues.

Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs): 5 facts you need to know

1. Traumatic brain injuries affect approximately 1.7 million Americans each year. About 75% of those injuries are mild TBIs, traumatic brain injuries, or concussions. There are many factors contributing to this high number, including falls, motor vehicle accidents, sports injuries, strokes, and physical violence.
2. Number one cause of traumatic brain injuries is falls. We usually assume it is automobile accidents or sports-related injuries but the most common cause of traumatic brain injuries is falls.  A CDC report estimates that around 47 percent of traumatic brain injuries occur due to falls, especially among children and the elderly.
3. In most cases, a concussion does not result in a loss of consciousness. Approximately 10% of concussions will result in a loss of consciousness right after the injury.
4. Traumatic brain injuries are significantly more common in women than in men. Part of the reason could be the fact that more women over 15 have experienced some form of physical violence from their partners. Furthermore, women may be more likely to suffer a traumatic brain injury from a fall at home (due to their spending more time at home, on average).
5. Ninety percent of traumatic brain injuries cause some type of visual problem or deficit.

What vision problems may be caused by traumatic brain injuries?

Symptoms you might experience if you or a loved one have suffered a traumatic brain injury include:

• Eye strain or pain
• Headaches
• Difficulty doing near task for any sustained period of time
• Difficulty in the car
• Difficulty being in crowded environments
• Light sensitivity
• Glare sensitivity
• Double vision
• Difficulty with attention and concentration
• Memory issues
• Vestibular problems
• Peripheral vision loss