What is Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)?

Chapter 2 – What is Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)?

What is Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)?

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) happens when a sudden blow, jolt, or penetrating injury damages the brain. It disrupts how the brain normally works. Sometimes the injury is mild, like a brief concussion. Other times, it can cause severe and permanent changes in thinking, memory, emotions, and physical abilities.

Doctors define TBI as an injury to the brain caused by an external force — something from outside the body. It’s not the same as a stroke, brain tumor, or infection, which come from inside the body.

Types of TBI

TBI comes in many forms. Here are some common types:

  • Concussion – A mild injury that changes how the brain works temporarily. People might feel dizzy, confused, or have memory gaps, but scans often look normal.
  • Contusion – A bruise on the brain itself, caused by a direct hit.
  • Diffuse Axonal Injury (DAI) – Damage to brain cells from shaking or rotating forces. It often happens in car crashes or falls and can be severe.
  • Penetrating Injury – An object goes into the skull and brain, like a bullet or piece of metal.
  • Coup-Contrecoup Injury – The brain hits the inside of the skull on one side and then bounces back to hit the opposite side.

Causes of TBI

TBI can happen in many ways. Some of the most common causes are:

  • Falls (especially in children and older adults)
  • Car, motorcycle, or bicycle accidents
  • Sports injuries
  • Assaults or violence
  • Being struck by objects
  • Explosions (common in military injuries)

How Common is TBI?

TBI is more common than many people realize. In the United States:

  • Around 2.8 million people each year go to the emergency room for TBI-related injuries.
  • Over 200,000 people are hospitalized yearly because of TBI.
  • TBI contributes to about 50,000 deaths per year.

Worldwide, millions live with lasting effects from brain injuries.

Why Understanding TBI Matters

Understanding TBI helps people get proper medical care, therapy, and support. It also helps reduce stigma. Many people with brain injuries look perfectly normal on the outside but are struggling inside with memory, fatigue, or emotions.

Knowing the facts is the first step toward recovery, hope, and better support for survivors and families.

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