Traumatic Brain Injury

Each year 1.7 million people suffer from Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) in the USA. TBI’s are caused by bumps, blows and jolts to the head. These motions to the head can cause multiple bleeding to the brain or head injuries that directly damage brain tissue. A concussion is an example of a mild TBI. Severe TBI can cause massive cuts and bleeding to the brain, direct nerve damages as well as the death of brain cells. Brain injury can cause a fever, seizures as well as other problems. All forms of TBI can cause damage to neurons that can lead to an inflammatory response. People who suffer from repeated brain damage can develop a condition known as chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE). CTE happens because of repeated head trauma that causes damaged brain tissue. This creates a buildup of proteins. CTE can cause memory loss, confusion, impaired judgment, impulse control problems, aggression, depression, and, eventually dementia. Most people with mild forms of TBI recover easily. Rest is necessary for people with TBI so they can heal. Treatments for TBI incudes removing water fluid and inflamed brain tissue though surgery. Severe TBI can cause the brain to get bruised causing blood to leak and contact brain tissue. This blood is toxic to the brain. In some cases, this can lead to seizures and post-traumatic epilepsy. Once the patient with brain damage is stable rehabilitation can begin this consist of physical and occupational therapy as well as many medications. ​

Source: Frontiers Media