- Posted August 30, 2014 by
Effects Of Traumatic Brain Injury
Traumatic brain injuries are an extremely common and serious condition that effects people of all ages in the U.S. It is estimated that 2 million people each year are subject to brain injuries, with over 56,000 deaths attributed to these severe head injuries. Any trauma to the head or brain can result in an injury that can have a long-term impact on the victim, from instant cognitive impairments to ongoing learning disabilities.
Causes Of Traumatic Brain Injuries
Any event that causes a blow to the head region can cause a traumatic brain injury. When the head is impacted, the brain can shift violently inside the skull, injuring the delicate balance needed for neurological functions. Some of the most common causes of brain injuries, according to Neurospinal Associates in Bradenton, Florida, include:
Motor vehicle accidents
Domestic or criminal violence
Long-term Effects Of Brain Injuries
Any brain injury can have long-term effects for the patient, even when they initially do not show any signs of cognitive disability. This is especially true of children where the injury may affect their ability to learn social or cognitive skills years down the road. Some of the known long-term effects of brain injuries include:
Loss of cognitive function or reduced learning capabilities
Impaired coordination, motor skills or balance
Behavioral or emotional issues
Impairments to hearing, vision or other senses
It is estimated that almost 100,000 people a year sustain a long-term injury or disability from a brain injury accident. This can greatly affect their quality of life if left untreated. The negative effect can include all aspects of their life: their ability to enjoy their career, leisure activities and even personal relationships.
However, in many cases, a brain injury can be treated with positive results, with many victims recovering some or all of their lost function through treatments such as neurosurgery. With new surgical and non-surgical advancements in treating of neurological conditions from brain injuries, many brain injury victims experience vast improvements in their symptoms, allowing them to lead happier and healthier lives.