VWB Blog Even though the human brain is incredible, it can suffer some serious injuries. It’s the CEO of the body, in charge of controlling all of the functions throughout the body. Any damage to the brain can be catastrophic and require extensive therapy.
That’s why it’s good to understand the different types of brain injuries. You should know how they occur, how to prevent them, and how to seek medical attention immediately if you do suffer one.
See below for a breakdown of the two types of brain injuries and why they matter.
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
Traumatic brain injury, or TBI, is a type of brain injury that can occur after an external force impacts the head. These injuries can range from mild concussions to severe life-altering impairments. Common causes of TBI include
- vehicular accidents
- falls
- sports injuries
- physical violence
Many individuals who experience a TBI may have symptoms in the days and weeks following the injury, such as headaches, nausea, and confusion. More significant injuries may include long-term issues with speech, memory, and problem-solving.
Types of TBI include mild traumatic brain injury, which involves a brief period of unconsciousness, to severe TBI with extensive brain damage, coma, and in some cases, death. Proper medical treatment, including the use of medications, rehabilitation, physical therapy, and other specialized treatments, is extremely important for individuals who have sustained a brain injury.
With proper treatment, however, individuals can make significant progress in their recovery. Understanding the different types of brain injuries and the potential long-term effects is essential for making good decisions about an injured person’s care. Learning about brain injury symptoms and treatments can help ensure that survivors of this type of brain injury receive the right care.
Make sure to read resource on TBI awareness for more information.
Non-traumatic Acquired Brain Injuries
Non-traumatic acquired brain injuries occur when the brain is damaged as a result of something other than an external force, such as
- infection
- stroke
- tumor
- lack of oxygen
These types of brain injuries can be caused by a variety of factors, including medical conditions and environmental exposures. Depending on the severity of the injury, individuals with non-traumatic acquired brain injuries may suffer from a range of physical, cognitive, and behavioral symptoms.
Physical symptoms can include changes in movement, speech, and orientation.
Cognitive symptoms may include
- a marked decrease in attention
- memory
- problem-solving ability
Behavioral symptoms can include
- confusion
- aggression
- impulsivity
- depression
With non-traumatic acquired brain injuries, recovery times and outcomes vary greatly depending on the individual and the severity of the injury. It is important for those who care for someone with a non-traumatic acquired brain disability to provide them with customized medical, psychological, and therapeutic support.
Different Types of Brain Injuries
Brain injuries can have a devastating and long-term impact on both the individual and their families. To prevent and reduce the occurrence of these life-altering injuries, it is essential to increase awareness of injuries and their many causes.
Do your part to help spread the word. Talk to your family, friends, and colleagues about the types of brain injuries and their prevention.
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