Brain injury can be a confusing topic for most people in California, whether the questions concern how the trauma happened or what recovery is like. The truth is that brain injuries can happen in many different ways and can cause a variety of problems. Brainline.org reports that 52,000 people die of brain injury every year in the United States, and another 275,000 are hospitalized.
First, it is important to note that genetic factors can play a role in a person’s likelihood of getting and dying from a traumatic brain injury. Young children under the age of four, and adolescents between 15 and 19 years old are more likely than any other ages to suffer a TBI. Being a male also increases the risk by 1.5 times. Race can also play a factor, as the group with the highest rate of death is African Americans.
There are many ways that a TBI can be caused. For members of the military, a major cause can be blasts from explosions. The top three causes of all brain injuries include falls, car accidents, and being struck against or by something. Assaults also account for 10 percent of TBI cases.
Not all brain injuries are the same. There are different levels of severity, ranging from amnesia or extensive unconsciousness from a severe injury to short episodes of forgetfulness in mild cases. The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke states that possible disabilities include altered sensory processing, mental health issues, cognitive concerns and a difficulty sleeping. Severe injuries in certain areas of the brain can lead to a lengthy condition called persistent vegetative state which can last for over a month.
