Brain Injury Alliance of America (biaUSA.org) · Covid/Vaccination Info
Brain Injury Associaton of New Jersey (biaNJ.org) · New Jersey Resources · Donate
A brain injury is one which occurs to the brain after birth and is not congenital, degenerative or hereditary. The injury results in a change of the brain’s neuronal activity. There are two types of brain injury:
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. TBI can be defined as closed (non-penetrating) or open (penetrating). The severity of a TBI may range from mild (for example, a concussion) to severe.
Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) is an alteration in brain functioning or pathology caused by internal factors such as a lack of oxygen.
According to the Brain Injury Association of America, brain injuries can cause “an impairment of cognitive abilities or physical functioning. It can also result in the disturbance of behavioral or emotional functioning.”
A brain injury may produce an altered or diminished state of consciousness, and result in an impairment of cognitive abilities or physical functioning. It can also result in the disturbance of behavioral or emotional functioning. These impairments may be temporary or permanent, and cause partial or total functional disability.
Cognitive consequences can include memory loss, slowed ability to process information, trouble concentrating, organizational problems, poor judgment and difficulty initiating activities. Physical consequences can include seizures, muscle spasticity, fatigue, headaches and balance problems. Emotional or behavioral consequences can include depression, mood swings, anxiety, impulsivity and agitation.
According to the American Academy of Neurology, anyone with a neurologic disorder such as brain injury is particularly vulnerable to diseases like influenza and COVID-19. Brain injury treatment programs are therefore trying to get their patients and staff vaccinated as quickly as possible.