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Traumatic Brain Injury is More Widespread Than You Think

Posted on behalf of Arnold Law Firm on April 7, 2016 in Personal Injury
Updated on February 24, 2022

child with cover on forehead

Discussions of traumatic brain injury (TBI) often address sports associated with repeated concussions now known to deteriorate the brains of players over time. However, sports involving tackle impact, such as football and hockey, are not the only activities that can cause TBI.

Millions of people suffer from TBI, including individuals who are not athletes. TBI can result from any forceful motion of the head which may, or may not, involve direct impact.

Increasingly, the medical profession is paying attention to how various forms of TBI lead to serious injuries and death. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) estimates that one third of injuries that lead to death involve mild to severe Traumatic Brain Injury.

The CDC reports that three age groups are especially vulnerable to TBI:

  • Infants to toddlers of four years of age
  • Adolescents from 15-19 years of age
  • Seniors over the age of 65

Children who are 14 years old or younger account for nearly a half million emergency department visits for TBI annually, notes Mark Herceg, the Director of Neuro-psychology at Burke Rehabilitation Hospital in White Plains, N.Y.

TBI Can Be Mild with Subtle Effects

Life-altering TBI doesn’t necessarily involve immediate, distinct symptoms, such as loss of consciousness, severe headache, or seizures. Mild TBI is often missed at the time of injury, but can cause a range of effects, including sleep disturbances, poor concentration, and fatigue. Even a  minor disturbance, such as a bump or blow to the head, can disrupt the normal function of the brain, says Herceg.

One of the least-discussed potential consequences of TBI is the loss of emotional control. Even mild TBI can result in debilitating changes in mood management, behavioral conduct and feelings. TBI can impact mood functions by:

  • Altering feelings
  • Changing how emotions are expressed
  • Increasing or decreasing the intensity of feelings
  • Increasing the frequency or severity of intense mood swings

When TBI affects the emotional control center of the brain, reports Herceg, individuals may lose control of their emotional responses. As such, someone they may respond to emotional stimuli in an inappropriate or disproportionate manner. They may display unprovoked intense emotional reactions and responses. It is important that family members respond in a supportive manner and ensure that medical assistance is readily available.

Traumatic Brain Injury Lawyers Are Waiting To Hear From You

At the Arnold Law Firm, our Sacramento personal injury attorneys help victims and their families recover financial compensation for their brain injuries. To discuss the details of your case for free, call (916) 777-7777.