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What Are the Most Common Causes of TBI?

Published on May 28, 2024 at 3:46 pm in Brain Injury.

What Are the Most Common Causes of TBI?

When anyone is involved in an accident, there are many reasons to be concerned. While you can see physical injuries, some could remain hidden, like a traumatic brain injury (TBI).

The brain can suffer from damage due to a sudden forceful impact of a collision or fall. In turn, that can leave the victim with significant health issues.

But what are the common causes of these TBI?

Find out what can lead to a traumatic brain injury and what is the long-term outlook for victims.

What Is a Traumatic Brain Injury?

A traumatic brain injury can occur when a sudden force damages the brain. Everything from a fall to a car accident or physical assault can lead to this medical condition. With the force of the impact, the brain moves inside the skull. As a result, that can lead to bleeding, bruising, or other serious types of damage.

TBIs can range in severity from mild concussions to long-term disability. Some of the most common symptoms include:

  • Headaches
  • Confusion
  • Memory loss
  • Loss of concentrating
  • Dizziness
  • Nausea

According to recent data compiled by BrainLine, a public service site run by WETA Public Television, around 2.8 million people suffer a traumatic brain injury on a yearly basis, leading to 282,000 hospitalizations and 50,000 deaths.

Any TBI can significantly impact a person’s life, including their ability to work, socialize, and even perform everyday tasks.

Common Causes of Traumatic Brain Injury

Traumatic brain injury is a serious condition that can result from a variety of causes. Some of the most common causes include:

Slips and Falls

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, falls are one of the leading causes of TBI, especially among older adults and young children.

Slippery surfaces, uneven ground, or accidents at home can lead to head injuries. Homeowners and business owners should take preventive measures to reduce the risk of falling, such as removing slipping hazards, installing handrails, and using non-slip mats.

Vehicle Accidents

Car, truck, and motorcycle accidents are another common cause of traumatic brain injuries.

Also, pedestrians who are involved in these incidents can experience TBIs. All these crashes result in trauma to the head. Despite seat belts and airbags, the force of the accident can damage the brain.

These accidents often happen at a higher speed, resulting in even more significant injuries.

Physical Violence

Any violent blows to the head may lead to substantial brain injuries. Assaults involving weapons or blunt objects can commonly cause traumatic brain injuries. Those who assault another person could be charged with a crime and face a civil case in court.

Sports

Some sports can also contribute to a traumatic brain injury. Participants in football, soccer, and boxing can suffer from forceful blows to the head. As a result, that can lead to a concussion or more serious brain injury.

While wearing helmets and proper gear can help, there are some instances where a person can still end up with a TBI.

Acts of War

Military personnel and civilians exposed to explosions, such as in combat or terrorist attacks, may suffer TBI. The sudden impact of blasts can cause brain damage.

Military training emphasizes protective gear and safety protocols to minimize the risk of TBI, but some personnel can still suffer from the effects of these incidents.

Workplace Accidents

A heavy object falling or hitting the head can cause a traumatic brain injury. These accidents are prevalent at certain workplaces, like construction sites. Falling from a significant height or getting hit with tools or debris are a few examples of these traumatic accidents. In most cases, it can cause substantial damage to the brain.

While some of these causes can be attributed to accidental incidents, there are other times when another person’s actions lead to a brain injury in West Virginia. In these cases, the responsible party may be held accountable for any inquiries and damages resulting from the incident.

A Long Road to Recovery

This life-changing condition can have far-reaching effects on individuals who experience it.

The brain is the body’s control center. Any damage to it can affect an individual’s physical and mental abilities, along with their emotional and social well-being.

One of the biggest challenges for individuals with any brain injury is the impact on their work and employment. Traumatic brain injuries can disrupt cognitive functions, memory, and concentration, making it difficult for individuals to perform tasks they once excelled at.

As a result, some people with TBI may require workplace adjustments, such as modified schedules, reduced workloads, or changes in job responsibilities.

In severe cases, these injuries may necessitate a shift to a different career or early retirement.

Along with work-related challenges, traumatic brain injuries can also lead to social isolation and strained relationships. TBI-related symptoms, such as mood swings and communication difficulties, can lead to social withdrawal. All of these can make it challenging for family and friends to understand the individual’s changes. Building a strong support system is vital for emotional well-being.

Traumatic brain injuries can also affect an individual’s ability to perform everyday tasks and maintain their independence. Physical limitations can affect dressing, cooking, and personal hygiene.

Memory lapses, poor judgment, and organizational difficulties impact daily routines. Learning new ways to manage tasks becomes essential. Some individuals may need assistive tools such as reminders and mobility aids to maintain independence.

Get Legal Help for Your TBI Case

Unfortunately, some accidents are the result of another person’s actions.

In those situations, you may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit against the responsible individual or entity. Talking with a traumatic brain injury lawyer can help you discover your legal options.

Traumatic brain injuries are devastating to both the victim and their family members. By holding those responsible accountable, you can start on the path to recovery.