A Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) is a disruption to normal brain function caused by a blow, jolt, or other force to the head. Sometimes referred to as craniocerebral trauma, this type of brain dysfunction can also be caused by a sharp object which penetrates the brain tissue, such as a bullet or shrapnel.
TBI is a complex injury with a broad range of potential symptoms and long-term complications. While mild brain injuries may only affect the brain cells temporarily, more serious TBI can result in torn tissue, bleeding, and other physical brain damage. The most severe cases can lead to permanent brain damage or death.
Millions of individuals experience brain injuries every year, with more than half of the cases warranting hospital treatment. Half of all TBIs are caused by motor vehicle accidents, but military personnel in combat zones are also at risk.
Because the brain dictates so many aspects of life, a Traumatic Brain Injury can result in a broad range of symptoms. No two brain injuries are alike, and symptoms may appear immediately or within the days and weeks afterward. While physical symptoms such as slurred speech, weakness in the arms and legs, serious headache, repeated vomiting or nausea, and others may occur, sensory and cognitive symptoms, as well as personality changes, may also develop. Mood changes, feelings of depression and anxiousness, agitation, light sensitivity, and changes in hearing, taste, or smell can arise. Symptoms and their severity can vary from one patient to the next and may differ depending on whether the injury is mild, moderate, or severe.
