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What is a Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)?A TBI is:
- A disruption of normal brain function caused by traumaPeople may experience
- Loss of consciousnessAmnesia – retrograde (after the impact) and/or anterograde (before the impact)Confusion
- Trouble speaking or moving
Traumatic brain injury is categorized as mild (concussion), moderate or severe. Causes of TBI include:
- A blow or jolt to the head or a penetrating object
- A rapid acceleration or deceleration of the head, which can force the brain to move back and forth inside the skull
The leading cause of TBI is falls, followed by motor vehicle crashes (car, motorcycle, ATV, etc.), being struck by or falling against an object, and assault.
In the United States:
- 1.4 million estimated TBI each year 1.1 million treated & released from an Emergency Department 235,000 hospitalized50,000 deaths75% Mild TBI5.3 million living with long term deficits (2% of the US population)Direct & indirect costs of $60 billion
- 10-20% of Iraq war veterans have a TBI (source CDC & BTF)
The only known cure for brain injury is prevention!!
- Always make sure everyone in the car is buckled up Never shake an infant or childAlways wearing a protective helmet during recreational activities Don't drink and drive
- Seek medical attention if you're dazed or have lost consciousness during a sports/recreational activity
Always wear a helmet when riding a bicycle, motorcycle, rollerblades, skateboard, snowboard, ATV, skis or anything other than your own two feet!
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