Overview
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) occurs when a sudden injury occurs to the brain. This can occur from something such as a minor blow to the head to as severe as an object penetrating the brain.
Globally, it is estimated that about 69 million people suffer a traumatic brain injury (TBI) each year.
In the United States, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that:
Approximately 2.87 million people sustain a TBI annually, including those who are hospitalized, treated in the emergency department, or who die as a result of the injury.
Of these, around 280,000 individuals are hospitalized each year, and approximately 60,000 people die from TBI-related causes.
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) can result from various types of incidents and accidents that impact the head. Here are the primary causes of TBI:
1. Falls
Falls are the leading cause of TBI, particularly among young children and older adults. Common situations leading to falls include:
Slipping or tripping on uneven surfaces
Falling from a height (such as ladders or stairs)
Falls due to medical conditions like dizziness or fainting
2. Motor Vehicle Accidents
Accidents involving cars, motorcycles, bicycles, and pedestrians can lead to significant TBIs due to:
High-impact collisions
Ejection from the vehicle
Head strikes against the dashboard, steering wheel, or other parts of the vehicle
3. Sports and Recreational Activities
Contact sports and certain recreational activities can lead to TBIs. Examples include:
Football, soccer, and hockey (due to tackles, hits, or falls)
Bicycle and skateboarding accidents
Recreational activities like skiing or snowboarding
4. Violence and Assaults
Violence and physical assaults can result in TBIs, often through:
Blows to the head from objects or fists
Gunshot wounds to the head
Shaken Baby Syndrome (in infants)
5. Explosive Blasts and Combat Injuries
Military personnel and individuals exposed to explosive blasts or combat situations can experience TBIs due to:
Blast waves impacting the head and brain
Debris or shrapnel causing injury
Rapid changes in pressure affecting the brain
6. Medical or Surgical Conditions
Certain medical conditions or complications during surgery can cause TBIs, including:
Stroke or aneurysm that leads to brain bleeding or swelling
Surgical complications where the brain is accidentally injured
7. Other Causes
Additional less common causes of TBIs include:
Animal bites or attacks (such as from dogs)
Falls from machinery or construction equipment
Accidents involving heavy objects or equipment
Understanding these causes can help in implementing preventive measures and safety practices to reduce the risk of TBI.
Common Symptoms
Some common symptoms can include:
headaches
blurred vision
hearing problems
difficulty speaking
dizziness, and others
The symptoms of a Traumatic Brain Injury vary from person to person, but one thing remains the same: the importance of receiving medical attention to monitor and treat your injuries.
Additional Assistance
If you need assistance, or just want to learn more about the benefits and services you may be eligible for, schedule an appointment with one of our TBI CENTER OF NEW YORK.
Book a consultation
Find An Office Near You
Call 1-516-705-5600 to speak to an advisor.
Contact us at info@tbicenterny.com
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