What makes a brain injury "traumatic?"
Usually, a 'traumatic' brain injury is caused by
external force to the skull. Other causes of brain injuries
(aneurysms, brain tumors, etc.) are not classified as 'traumatic.'
What causes a TBI?
The most common causes of TBI are motor vehicle
crashes and falls, but they can be anything that causes the head to
abruptly strike a solid object and the brain to hit the interior
wall of the skull. Other causes are: physical assaults (such as
gunshot wounds and child abuse) and
sports/recreational injuries.
What are the consequences of TBI?
TBI varies in severity from mild to severe.
People who experience a mild injury very often appear fine yet can
have some lingering effects that impact their ability to resume
their normal responsibilities at home, work, or school. They may
exhibit difficulties with: concentration, organization, managing
multiple tasks simultaneously, memory, relationships with family,
business associates, friends, and/or personality changes.
People whose injuries are considered to be
moderate or severe, exhibit varying degrees of difficulty in
cognition (thinking), emotional, behavioral, physical and social
areas. They may suffer permanent disabilities, which affect their
returning to a pre-injury lifestyle.
Why is TBI called "The Silent Epidemic?"
TBI has been referred to as "The Silent
Epidemic" because of the staggering number of people who are injured
each year and the lack of public awareness about its consequences.
Who is the Brain Injury Association of
Kansas?
To find out about us, please
visit our About Page
