Symptoms of Frontal Closed Head Injuries

A head injury to the front of the head that doesn't penetrate the skull can cause a number of problems. In many cases, impact energy is transferred to the brain and cause brain damage. A frontal injury to the head is likely to cause damage to the frontal lobe, which can trigger a number of symptoms.

Cognition Problems

• A frontal closed head injury can cause problems with cognition. One cognitive symptom could be a loss of flexibility in thinking and reasoning. Another may be the presence of a single, persistent thought. Difficulties in focusing on a single task and difficulties with problem-solving are other symptoms of a possible injury to the frontal lobe.

Language Problems

• Another possible indication of an injury to the frontal lobe is difficulty with language. In some cases, inhibitions are reduced in language and actions toward strangers. Some people report difficulty expressing thoughts and emotions using language. Another possible symptom is a lack of spontaneous interactions with other people.

Social Problems

• Language problems often contribute to changes in social behavior. In addition to language problems, some people with frontal lobe injuries report mood changes, changes in personality, and generalized changes in social behavior. These changes can cause difficulties with longer-term relationships and may make forming new relationships more difficult.

Movement Problems

• Frontal lobe injuries triggered by frontal closed head injuries can sometimes cause movement problems. In some cases, simple paralysis makes moving of various body parts difficult or impossible. In some cases, coordination of different muscle groups is more difficult, making complex physical tasks more difficult.

Treatment

• If the symptoms are being caused by a swelling of the frontal lobe, surgery may be required to relieve pressure and minimize damage. Once brain damage has occurred, treatment could include medication, counseling and attempts to train other parts of the brain to take over functions usually performed in the damaged area. In mild cases of frontal closed head injury, this will occur naturally and symptoms may eventually subside.