Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) is a complex injury with far-reaching effects on a person’s physical, psychological, and cognitive functioning. TBI is caused by an external force, such as a blow to the head, that disrupts the normal functioning of the brain. TBI is the leading cause of death and disability among young adults in the United States and is a major public health concern (Langlois et al., 2006).
The most common causes of TBI are motor vehicle accidents, falls, and assaults (Langlois et al., 2006). TBI is classified as mild, moderate, or severe based on the Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS). A mild TBI is typically associated with a GCS score of 13-15, a moderate TBI is associated with a GCS score of 9-12, and a severe TBI is associated with a GCS score of 8 or below (Langlois et al., 2006).
The effects of TBI can vary widely depending on the severity of the injury. Common effects of mild TBI include headache, dizziness, confusion, and difficulty concentrating. Moderate to severe TBI can result in coma, amnesia, and paralysis (Langlois et al., 2006).
The long-term effects of TBI are often not immediately apparent, but can include cognitive deficits, such as difficulty with executive functioning, memory, and communication; physical deficits, such as difficulty with mobility or balance; and psychological deficits, such as depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (Langlois et al., 2006).
TBI is often treated with a combination of medical interventions, such as medications and/or surgery, and rehabilitative interventions, such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, and/or speech therapy (Langlois et al., 2006). The goal of rehabilitation is to help the person with TBI re-learn skills and develop new strategies to compensate for deficits.
There are many organizations dedicated to providing information and support for people with TBI and their families. The Brain Injury Association of America (BIAA) is the leading national organization dedicated to providing support, resources, and advocacy for people with TBI and their families (Brain Injury Association of America, n.d.).
In summary, Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) is a complex injury with wide-ranging and long-term effects. TBI is most commonly caused by motor vehicle accidents, falls, and assaults. The effects of TBI vary depending on the severity of the injury, and can include cognitive, physical, and psychological deficits. TBI is often treated with a combination of medical interventions and rehabilitative interventions, and there are many organizations dedicated to providing information and support for people with TBI and their families.
References
Brain Injury Association of America. (n.d.). Home. Retrieved from https://www.biausa.org/
Langlois, J. A., Rutland-Brown, W., & Wald, M. M. (2006). The epidemiology and impact of traumatic brain injury: A brief overview. Journal of Head Trauma Rehabilitation, 21(5), 375-378. doi: 10.1097/01.HTR.0000238278.92521.b3