Recovering from a Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
What is a Traumatic Brain Injury?
A traumatic brain injury (TBI) occurs when sudden trauma, such as a violent blow to the head or an object penetrating the skull, damages brain tissue. TBIs range in severity, from mild (like concussions) to severe injuries that may lead to long-term complications. Even seemingly mild TBIs, such as concussions, can have serious cumulative effects, especially when experienced repeatedly, as seen in contact sports.
TBIs can lead to both short-term and long-term symptoms. In the short term, symptoms may include headaches, fatigue, nausea, dizziness, light sensitivity, sleep disturbances, impaired judgment, and mood changes. Over the long term, TBIs can result in chronic headaches, memory issues, concentration difficulties, "brain fog," and heightened risks of depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
If you or a loved one has experienced a TBI, seeking immediate medical evaluation is essential. TBIs can be life-threatening, so prompt attention by a healthcare provider is crucial. The following strategies are suggested to support TBI recovery and should be used under the guidance of a medical professional.
Key Practices for Traumatic Brain Injury Recovery
Minimize Visual Stimulation
Following a TBI, visual stimuli like screens can strain the brain, intensifying symptoms and delaying recovery. To reduce this strain, limit screen time (e.g., TV, phone, computer) and choose audio-based activities like listening to podcasts, audiobooks, or calming music. Research shows that reducing visual overload aids recovery by minimizing cognitive strain, especially in the early weeks after an injury.
Limit Light Exposure and Maintain a Calm Environment
Excessive light exposure may exacerbate symptoms like headaches, irritability, and sensitivity to stimuli. Research suggests that creating a dim, calm environment can help alleviate these symptoms, supporting the healing process. Using curtains to limit natural light or opting for dim lighting can also be beneficial.
Incorporate Deep Breathing Techniques for Stress Relief
After a TBI, relaxation techniques like deep breathing exercises can be valuable tools to manage elevated heart rates and reduce stress. Box breathing—inhale for four seconds, hold for four, exhale for four, and pause for four before repeating—helps stabilize the heart rate and calm the nervous system. Relaxation techniques have been shown to positively impact the autonomic system, which is essential for brain healing post-TBI.
Seek Support and Ask for Necessary Accommodations
TBI recovery is often gradual, and having a support system is essential. Research shows that social support positively impacts recovery by alleviating stress and offering emotional stability. Don’t hesitate to request accommodations at work or school, such as reduced screen time, flexible deadlines, or quieter environments to foster healing.
Supplements for Brain Health and Recovery
TBI Daily Packs
Containing supplements selected by Dr. Sage Wheeler, the Medical director of SageMED, this is a pill pack that comes with convenient AM and PM supplement packets. The key ingredients are omega-3essential fats, Magnesium, Omega+CBD, Omega+Curcumin, Activated B-Complex, and Memory Support (Ginkgo, Bacopa, phosphatidylserine), and glutathione.
Activated B-Complex
One of the primary roles of B-Vitamins are to help repair damaged neurons, making Activated B-Complex an excellent addition to your TBI recovery regimen.
Neuro Calm Magnesium powder or capsules
This supplement helps to reduce emotional overstimulation, excitability, and irritability that are common after brain injuries.
Optimized Glutathione
Glutathione is one of the most potent antioxidants in the body, and is essential for optimal recovery.
Ultra Omega + CBD
CBD has been shown to help soothe overexcited nerves and has both anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. WiseMEDS combined it with high quality omega fats to improve absorption.
Ultra Omega + Curcumin
Curcumin is a natural anti-inflammatory that reduces inflammation associated with oxidative damage that’s common with brain injuries (especially concussions). It’s also combined with omegas to improve absorption.
Natural Lithium Orotate
Lithium Orotate (not to be confused with lithium citrate, the prescription drug) is a natural mineral found in the soil. It is one of the only nutrient found that can reduce the amount of harmful Tau proteins in the brain. This would be more appropriate for those with chronic brain injury from multiple concussions (such as football players with CTE).
TBI Recovery with Hormone & Antioxidant Treatments
Testosterone Replacement Therapy
Some patients may experience reduced testosterone levels post-TBI, impacting mood and energy. Under medical supervision, testosterone therapy may help restore these levels and improve recovery outcomes.
Progesterone Therapy
Progesterone, known for its anti-inflammatory properties, has shown promise in reducing brain inflammation when administered soon after an injury.
Methylene Blue
This antioxidant is being explored as an off-label treatment option for TBI due to its potential to reduce neural damage in preliminary animal studies, though more human research is needed.
Importance of Rest and Recovery in TBI Healing
Adequate rest is essential for TBI recovery. The brain expends significant energy on healing, making quality sleep, stress reduction, and cognitive breaks critical. Overexertion can worsen symptoms, so taking time to rest is vital to allow the brain to repair without added strain.
Conclusion
Recovering from a TBI can be a long and challenging journey, but a structured approach can improve outcomes. Limiting visual and sensory stimuli, practicing relaxation techniques, seeking appropriate accommodations, and incorporating evidence-based supplements or medications can aid recovery.
Always consult with healthcare providers before beginning new treatments, as TBI recovery is highly individualized, and professional guidance ensures a safer, more effective path.
Through persistence, patience, and professional support, meaningful recovery is achievable. Remember to stay proactive, seek support, and take consistent, small steps to prioritize brain health.
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Lee, H. Y., & Oh, B. M. (2022). Nutrition Management in Patients With Traumatic Brain Injury: A Narrative Review. Brain & NeuroRehabilitation, 15(1), e4. https://doi.org/10.12786/bn.2022.15.e4
Zhu, X., Cheng, J., Yu, J., Liu, R., Ma, H., & Zhao, Y. (2023). Nicotinamide mononucleotides alleviated neurological impairment via anti-neuroinflammation in traumatic brain injury. International journal of medical sciences, 20(3), 307–317. https://doi.org/10.7150/ijms.80942
Silverthorne, C., Khalsa, S. B., Gueth, R., DeAvilla, N., & Pansini, J. (2012). Respiratory, physical, and psychological benefits of breath-focused yoga for adults with severe traumatic brain injury (TBI): a brief pilot study report. International journal of yoga therapy, (22), 47–51.
Ng, S. Y., & Lee, A. Y. W. (2019). Traumatic Brain Injuries: Pathophysiology and Potential Therapeutic Targets. Frontiers in cellular neuroscience, 13, 528. https://doi.org/10.3389/fncel.2019.00528
National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. (2022). Traumatic brain injury: A roadmap for accelerating progress (C. Matney, K. Bowman, & D. Berwick, Eds.). National Academies Press. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK580075/
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