Traumatic Brain Injuries

Understanding Traumatic Brain Injuries: Causes and Effects

A blow or jolt to the head or a penetrating head injury can result in a traumatic brain injury (TBI). TBIs can disrupt the normal function of the brain, ranging from a brief change in mental status or consciousness to an extended period of unconsciousness or memory loss following the injury. Concussions are the most common type of TBI.

Each year, approximately 1.4 million Americans sustain a traumatic brain injury. About 50,000 people die from TBIs each year, while 80,000 more experience lifelong disabilities.

Common causes of traumatic brain injuries include falls, car accidents, being struck by an object, hitting one’s head against a hard surface, and assaults. The symptoms of a brain injury may take weeks or months to fully develop and can include impaired thinking, inability to concentrate, emotional and behavioral changes, and loss of balance, speech, memory, and coordination.

A traumatic brain injury can be devastating for both the victim and their family. The goal of rehabilitation is to improve the individual’s ability to perform daily activities. The type and duration of rehabilitation vary depending on the severity of the brain injury and the specific area of the brain affected. Family members may also notice troubling changes in the person’s emotions or behavior, adding to the challenges of coping with a TBI.