Traumatic brain injury (TBI) occurs when a blow to the head or sudden movement causes the brain to collide with the inside of the skull. Contrary to popular belief, losing consciousness is not necessary for brain damage to occur. The brain has the consistency of soft butter, while the inside of the skull is rough and lined with sharp ridges. Mild TBI may affect brain cells temporarily. More-serious TBI can result in bleeding, bruising, swelling and sometimes long-term complications in brain function. 

Each year, more than two million people visit U.S. emergency rooms for head injuries. Common causes of TBI include sports injuries, falls and car accidents. While severe head trauma is generally easy to identify, mild or moderate TBI often goes unreported because there may be no loss of consciousness and symptoms may not appear for days or weeks. 

According to research from the Amen Clinics, a mental health and brain imaging center with locations nationwide, head injuries are a major underlying cause of mental health issues. Using Brain SPECT Imaging, which assesses blood flow and activity in the brain, the clinic found that 40 percent of its patients showed signs of past brain injuries, many of whom were unaware they had suffered a concussion. In addition to mental health problems, TBI can lead to a wide range of physical, cognitive, emotional and behavioral issues and, while the relationship between TBI and degenerative brain diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s is still unclear, some research does suggest that repeated or severe TBI might increase risk.

Identifying the symptoms and seeking care for mild, moderate or severe TBI is essential for healing and future health. When symptoms from TBI continue for months or years, it is considered post-concussion syndrome. The symptoms are often difficult to pinpoint as TBI, especially in children and/or when the patient doesn’t know an injury occurred. Symptoms can range from any combination of headaches, fatigue, dizziness, difficulty concentrating, confusion, mood swings and more. 

Common recommendations for immediate TBI treatment include sleep to help with brain repair, adequate hydration, a healthy diet and avoidance of screen time and strenuous mental or physical activities. Research also continues to accrue regarding the potential of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) to reduce inflammation, increase oxygen levels and improve circulation, showing promise for faster and more complete recovery from TBI and post-concussion syndrome.

A 2013 study gathered evidence from 56 patients suffering from prolonged post-concussion syndrome. After 40 HBOT sessions, participants had significantly improved brain activity, cognitive function and quality of life. In 2012, an HBOT study on military personnel with chronic mild to moderate TBI also had better memory and quality of life. Professional athletes have also claimed that HBOT helped them recover brain function after multiple TBIs and long-term symptoms. 

HBOT is either high pressure (2.0 to 3.0 ATA) or low pressure (1.3 to 1.5 ATA). For many years it was thought that low pressure HBOT was not effective. Recent research has found that, in many cases, it is as effective as high pressure, especially with head injuries. An HBOT session is quite simple. The patient enters a chamber that resembles a small submarine or a tanning bed. Once inside, the chamber is sealed and pressurized. Oxygen is provided through a nasal cannula or oxygen mask. People report feeling slight warmth as the pressure increases. Some get a gentle lifting sensation. Most people report a feeling of calm and well-being and can relax, read or nap during the 60- to 90-minute session. 

An HBOT chamber exposes the body to pressures higher than what is common at sea level. It could be compared to deep underwater diving. The pressure change allows your body to absorb up to 20 times more oxygen. Because the brain requires so much energy to operate, it needs even more fuel to repair itself when injured. By combining pressure and oxygen, HBOT boosts brain cells and instigates the healing process by reducing inflammation, stimulating stem cell production, boosting the immune system and promoting the growth of new blood vessels. 

According to Dr. Jason Sonners, a leader in HBOT research, the treatment protocol for head injuries is 60 minutes at low pressure for 40 treatments. Side effects to HBOT are usually mild and temporary but can include ear discomfort, temporary vision changes or fatigue. Most crucial, however, is that HBOT is used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that may include multiple therapies to address all the physical and mental issues an individual may face after TBI or post-concussion syndrome. These could include physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech and language therapy, cognitive rehabilitation therapy and/or psychological therapy and counseling.

While the human brain is incredibly resilient, concussions are more than just a bump on the head. Recognizing the risks, seeking proper treatment and giving the brain time to heal can make a significant difference in long-term health. If symptoms appear later or continue, seeking treatment is essential to improving quality of life. As research results on HBOT continue to come in, it may become a standard protocol in the treatment of TBI and other healing journeys. 

Melanie Yost, LCSW, is co-owner of Be Well Solutions and Complete Ketamine Solutions Destin. A Certified HeartMath Practitioner and Brain Health Coach, she brings over 30 years of mental health experience. Her clinic offers a healing space focused on brain health and overall wellness through compassionate care and innovative therapies. For more details, call 850-786-2051 or visit CompleteKetamineSolutions.com.