Brain Injury Alliance of New Jersey (biaNJ.org) · Donate · Brain Injury Alliance of America (biaUSA.org) · Donate · New Jersey Resources · Helpline: 1 800 669-4323
Source: Brain Injury Alliance of New Jersey (biaNJ.org)
A brain injury is one that that occurs after birth and is not congenital, degenerative or hereditary. The injury results in a change of the brain’s neuronal activity.
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) is caused by an external factor such as a bump, blow or jolt to the head, that disrupts the normal function of the brain. Severity of a traumatic brain injury may range from “mild” (i.e., a brief change in mental status or consciousness) to “severe” (i.e., an extended period of unconsciousness or amnesia after the injury). Causes include: Strokes; Infectious Diseases; Seizures; Electric Shocks; Tumors; Carbon Monoxide; Lead Exposure; Lack of Oxygen (Drowning, Choking).
An Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) can result in cognitive, physical, emotional or behavioral impairments that may lead to permanent or temporary changes in functioning. Causes include: Falls; Assaults; Sports/Recreational Injuries; Motor Vehicle Crashes, Workplace/Military Injuries; Domestic Violence/Shaken Baby Syndrome.
A brain injury can cause a wide range of short or long-term changes:
· Thinking (memory and reasoning)
· Sensation (touch, taste, and smell)
· Language (communication, expression, and understanding);
· Emotion (depression, anxiety, personality changes, aggression, social inappropriateness)
· Physical (seizures, muscle spasms, fatigue, headaches, balance problems)
Symptoms of brain injury include: Fatigue or Drowsiness; Problems with Balance; Loss of Taste or Smell; Sensitivity to Light or noise; Disorientation; Memory problems: Reduced Attention/Concentration; Depression or Sadness: Anxiety/Nervousness; Mood Swings/Personality Change; Irritability
Rebuilding after brain injury may take weeks, months, or years. It is a process that affects individuals and family members differently. It is important to maintain follow up with medical professionals.