Many veterans have undiagnosed brain injuries or concussions from blasts and explosions. Some soldiers have had multiple concussions. This free article lists the common symptoms of brain injury and gives tips for healing and managing symptoms. Veterans and soldiers with these symptoms should be evaluated for concussion and blast injury to receive early treatment and to help recovery.

John Richards never expected to be a brain injury survivor. As a rehabilitation professional, president of a brain injury residential program, and Board of Directors member of the Brain Injury Association of New Hampshire, he was a well known service provider and advocate for persons with acquired brain injuries. The day he was found unconscious next to his bicycle on the road changed all that.

Update on acquired brain injury among prison inmates describes limited treatment for prisoners with neurological issues and acquired brain injury. Many have unidentified brain injuries and head trauma despite histories of unconsciousness, concussions, hospital admissions and physical trauma or abuse.

As a volunteer and support group leader in jail and prisons, John Simpson describes unidentified head trauma and TBI, physical abuse, childhood brain injuries, multiple brain injuries and alcohol abuse among prison inmates. As a case manager, he discusses the impact of head trauma on social behavior, alcohol use and troubled relationships.

Pituitary hormone deficiency may result from traumatic brain injury, head trauma or subarachnoid hemorrhage (stroke). Symptoms of hormone deficiency can mimic other effects of traumatic brain injury and delay diagnosis. Physical and psychological effects of hormone deficiency are described.

Alcohol and drug use after traumatic brain injury increases risks of another brain injury. Use of drugs and alcohol after TBI can worsen recovery, impair cognition, balance and problem solving. The body’s tolerance level can change after brain injury. Drinking one alcoholic beverage may be equivalent to six drinks.

Emotional reactions after traumatic brain injury include depression, boredom, loneliness and. Music increases dopamine levels associated with positive affect and feelings of well-being. Music therapy can help persons with TBI express feelings, concentrate, and participate in community events. Rehabilitation programs and families at home can use music therapy to help survivors with physical skills and coordination as well as social and cognitive skills.

Traumatic brain injury is a devastating and life-changing event for survivors and families. Rapid access to emergency care, astute diagnosis, expert treatment and rehabilitation can make the difference between hope or despair, and a positive future or frustration and hopelessness. Not all survivors have access to care and services leaving many to struggle with families at home and in communities.