Brain Injury

Overview

A brain injury is any disruption in the normal function of the brain caused by trauma, disease, lack of oxygen, or other internal or external factors. Brain injuries can be traumatic or non-traumatic (acquired) and range from mild (e.g., concussion) to severe, potentially resulting in long-term disability or death.

Types of Brain Injury

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

Occurs when an external force causes brain dysfunction. This can happen due to :

Blows to the head.
Falls.
Motor vehicle accidents.
Assaults.
Sports injuries.

Closed Head Injury :

The skull remains intact.
The brain moves within the skull, possibly hitting the skull and causing bruising, swelling, or bleeding..
Common in falls, car accidents, and sports.

Open (Penetrating) Head Injury :

The skull is broken or penetrated by an object (e.g., bullet, sharp weapon).
The brain is directly exposed to damage and infection.

Non-Traumatic / Acquired Brain Injury (ABI)

Results from internal processes not related to external trauma.

Stroke (interruption of blood flow to the brain.
Hypoxia/Anoxia (lack of oxygen).
Brain tumor.
Infections (meningitis, encephalitis).
Toxic exposure (drugs, chemicals).
Seizures.
Aneurysm rupture

Symptoms of Brain Injury

Physical Symptoms

Headache.
Nausea or vomiting.
Fatigue or drowsiness.
Dizziness or loss of balance.
Blurred vision.
Sensitivity to light or sound.
Seizures.
Loss of coordination

Cognitive Symptoms

Memory loss.
Difficulty concentrating or thinking clearly.
Slowed processing speed.
Disorientation.
Trouble with language or speech.

Emotional/Behavioral Symptoms:

Mood swings.
Anxiety or depression.
Irritability or aggression.
Lack of impulse control.
Personality changes.
Sleep disturbances.

Complications of Brain Injury

Brain swelling (edema).
Intracranial bleeding (hematoma).
Seizures.
Infection (especially in open injuries).
Hydrocephalus (buildup of cerebrospinal fluid).
Cognitive .
Coma or vegetative state.
Post-concussive syndrome.
Long-term disability