A concussion is actually a type of mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI), so the two terms are closely related but not exactly the same. A concussion refers specifically to a temporary disruption in brain function caused by a blow or jolt to the head, which makes it a subset of mild TBI. Mild traumatic brain injury is a broader category that includes concussions and other minor brain injuries that result from external forces impacting the head[1][5][6].
To tell if a concussion is actually a mild traumatic brain injury, you look for signs that the brain’s normal function has been disrupted, even if the injury seems minor. Common symptoms include headache, confusion, dizziness, nausea, sensitivity to light or noise, difficulty concentrating or remembering, and mood changes like irritability or emotional shifts. These symptoms may appear immediately or develop gradually over hours or days after the injury[1][3][7].
Loss of consciousness is not required to diagnose a concussion or mild TBI. Many people with mild TBI never lose consciousness but still experience cognitive or physical symptoms. Diagnosis is often clinical, based on reported symptoms and history of head trauma, since imaging tests like CT scans or MRIs usually appear normal in mild cases[5][6].
It is important to recognize that even mild TBIs can have serious consequences if ignored. Some individuals experience persistent symptoms lasting weeks or months, known as post-concussion syndrome, which can include chronic headaches, memory problems, mood disturbances, and sleep issues. Repeated concussions increase the risk of long-term problems and complications like second impact syndrome, which is a dangerous swelling of the brain if a second injury occurs before full recovery[4][7].
In summary, a concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury characterized by temporary brain dysfunction after a head impact. The presence of symptoms such as confusion, headache, dizziness, and cognitive difficulties following a head injury indicates that a concussion is indeed a mild TBI. Proper medical evaluation and rest are essential to ensure recovery and prevent further injury[1][5][7].
Sources
https://traumaticbraininjury.com/how-and-why-do-doctors-determine-the-severity-of-traumatic-brain-injuries/
https://www.thechampionfirm.com/blog/head-injury-severity-after-car-accident/
https://www.gervelislaw.com/traumatic-brain-injury-guide/
https://biren.com/mild-tbi-myths-why-just-a-concussion-can-change-your-life/
https://bestpractice.bmj.com/topics/en-gb/967
https://resources.healthgrades.com/right-care/brain-and-nerves/tbi-vs-concussion-whats-the-difference
https://blog.ochsner.org/articles/yes-even-a-mild-concussion-is-considered-a-traumatic-brain-injury/
