Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) in youth can produce serious damage in young, still-developing brain tissue. A large percentage of youth participation in sports like football and soccer contribute to a higher occurrence of traumatic brain injury, mostly concussions, in adolescents and pre-adolescents. Traumatic brain injury in small children, ages 0-4, tends to be linked to cases of trip and falls, falls from small heights (off of furniture), and cases of child abuse (shaken baby syndrome).
Common Symptoms of Traumatic Brain Injuries in Youth
There are several symptoms to watch for that may indicate a child has suffered a traumatic brain injury. If the child is in a car accident, falls while playing, or is hit in competitive sports – watch for any of the following symptoms and seek immediate medical assistance:
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Nausea / Vomiting
- Desire to Sleep or Abnormal Sleep Patterns
- Lack of Concentration
- Impaired Memory / Confusion
- Loss of Consciousness
- Speech Impairment / Slurring
- Trouble Focusing / Concentrating
- Blurry Vision
- Impulsiveness / Vocal Outbursts
Traumatic brain injury can have serious and cumulative effects if it goes undiagnosed. In addition to physiological symptoms, a child could feel “moody” or seem to act unlike his/her normal self. Psychological symptoms of a traumatic brain injury can manifest as:
- Abnormal Irritability
- Increased frustration / temper
- Emotional Instability – Sudden Mood Swings
- Abrupt Personality Changes / Depression
Resources for Patients
If your child is diagnosed and treated for a traumatic brain injury, it’s important to connect with others who are facing the same struggles. Many brain injury support groups exist throughout the US as well as in Florida. Finding support is critical, particularly in cases of severe traumatic brain injury. Here are a few links to local and national groups that can offer information as well as support group resources:
Florida Resources
- Central Florida Brain Injury Support Group* (Includes Tampa Resources)
Tampa South Brain Injury Support
Contact: Bob Barrett
Phone: 813-908-1375
McFarland Park Barksdale Bldg.
1801 North Lincoln Ave.
Tampa, FL 33602 – Hillsborough County
Largo
Brain Injury Support
Contact: Brian Madrinan
Phone: 727-588-1864
HealthSouth Rehab Hospital Largo – Classroom C
901 N. Clearwater-Largo Road
Largo, FL 33770 – Pinellas County
Resources for Teen and Youth Traumatic Brain Injury Patients
Though the resources listed above are highly informative, younger patients living with TBI might also benefit from support groups and organizations geared specifically to youth and other patients their age:
- Ability Online Support Network Connecting kids with special needs for friendship and support
Resources for Parents and Caregivers
Families and caregivers can also benefit by learning to properly care for a child living with TBI. During the early stages of recovery, a child’s frustrations or apparent uncooperative behavior may frighten parents who are trying to help. Information is available for those supporting the patient and understanding what types of behavior are normal for a healing brain can help take away much of the apprehension and feelings of discouragement.
Just as many regional and national support resources exist for family members and loved ones of brain injury patients. Here are a few more places to look online:
- By Your Side.org (BIAF Caregiver Resources)
- Right at Home (Florida)
References:
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