Brain injuries can occur as a result of many different incidents, including:
Open head injuries: These occur when the force of an object pierces the skull and damages the brain. Open head injuries can be caused by bullets, or any other object that penetrates the skull.
§ Closed head injuries: A closed head injury occurs when an external force impacts the head, causing the brain to shift and collide with the inside of the skull. Falls and car accidents most often cause closed head injuries.
§ Chemical brain injuries: If certain chemicals or poisons enter the body, they can cause serious damage to brain cells, causing permanent damage to the brain. The most common chemicals and toxins that cause this traumatic brain injury are insecticides, carbon monoxide, and lead poisoning.
Infections: If an infection is allowed to grow inside the body, it can affect the brain, causing the brain to swell and become damaged by pressing against the inside of the skull.
Hypoxia: If the body is deprived of oxygen for too long, it can cause serious damage to the brain because it does not receive the oxygen it needs to stay alive.
§ Stroke: If there is a blockage in the blood flowing to or from the brain, it can cause irreparable damage to brain cells, leading to long-lasting effects and disabilities.
Traumatic brain injuries are often misdiagnosed or undiagnosed. Often times, the only people aware of the effects of TBI are the victim or their loved ones, who notice subtle changes or differences. Even “minor brain injuries” can have many long-lasting effects on the victim and their family. Common symptoms of a traumatic brain injury include:
§ Headaches
§ Memory loss
§ Seizures
§ Tired
§ Depression
§ Dizziness
Poor concentration / attention
§ Confusion
§ Impulsiveness
Speech problems
§ Problems understanding things
§ Chronic pain
§ Difficulty controlling the intestines
§ Irritability
