How Is A Traumatic Brain Injury Diagnosed?

TBI symptoms can escalate quickly without treatment, according to the Mayo Clinic. If someone experiences headache, nausea, or other TBI symptoms, urgent medical care is paramount. That way, this individual can receive appropriate testing to determine if he or she is dealing with a TBI.

Common tests used to diagnose a TBI include:

• Glasgow Coma Scale: First responders can use this 15-point scale to assess the severity of an individual’s brain injury. When using the scale, responders will ask an individual to follow directions, move their eyes and limbs, and speak. From here, they will assign a score according to the scale. A high score indicates an individual’s injury may be minor. Meanwhile, a low score shows an individual may be experiencing a TBI or another type of serious injury.
• Computerized Tomography (CT) Scan: A doctor can request a patient undergo a CT scan to visualize fractures and other brain damage. The scan provides images that can highlight brain bleeding, bruising, and swelling.
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Scan: An MRI scan involves the use of radio waves to produce a detailed image of an individual’s brain. The scan can be performed once a patient is stable or if their symptoms do not subside shortly after their injury occurs.
• Intracranial Pressure Monitor Testing: A doctor can use an intracranial pressure monitor to track pressure inside of an individual’s skill. This helps the doctor assess the severity of brain damage.

Following a diagnosis of a TBI, a doctor crafts a personalized treatment plan for their patient. Next, the doctor and patient work together to execute the plan and ensure it delivers the optimal results.