What Causes Traumatic Brain Injury?

As we delve into the issue of traumatic brain injury, we find that the causes are varied and multifaceted. While accidental falls and sports mishaps are common culprits, The Schiller Kessler Group recognizes that external forces also play a significant role.

Furthermore, underlying medical conditions can increase the risk of traumatic brain injury. Understanding the most common causes is important for better prevention and management of brain injuries.

Our Fort Lauderdale traumatic brain injury lawyer can help you understand what causes a traumatic brain injury. We have over 30 years of experience handling traumatic brain injury cases.

External Forces and Trauma

When external forces, such as a blow to the head or a penetrating head wound, strike your body with significant force, they can cause traumatic brain injury. The concussion mechanisms behind this injury involve intricate impact dynamics. 

When your head is struck, your brain can move back and forth inside your skull, causing damage to brain cells and tissues. The force of the impact can also cause your brain to twist or rotate, leading to further injury. Additionally, the impact can create pressure waves that travel through your brain, causing widespread damage. 

Understanding these concussion mechanisms is important in diagnosing and treating traumatic brain injury. By analyzing the impact dynamics of external forces, medical professionals can better assess the severity of the injury and develop effective treatment plans.

Accidents and Incidents Cause Traumatic Brain Injuries

As you go about your daily life, accidents can happen in the blink of an eye, leaving you vulnerable to traumatic brain injury. You might be going about your daily routine, and then suddenly, you’re involved in a road traffic accident or a workplace accident. These unexpected events can cause severe head trauma, leading to traumatic brain injury.

Some common accidents and incidents that can lead to traumatic brain injury include:

• Road traffic accidents, such as car crashes or motorcycle accidents
• Workplace accidents, like falls from heights or being struck by falling objects
• Slip, trip, and fall accidents, which can occur anywhere, at any time

Sports and Recreation Risks in Fort Lauderdale

While engaging in sports and recreational activities, you’re exposed to a unique set of risks that can lead to traumatic brain injury. You’re more likely to suffer a traumatic brain injury if you participate in high-impact sports like football, hockey, or soccer. 

Even low-impact sports like cycling or baseball can be risky if you’re not wearing proper protective gear. In youth sports, the risk of traumatic brain injury is particularly high due to developing brains and bodies. 

That’s why many youth sports organizations have implemented concussion protocols to help identify and manage concussions. By understanding the risks and taking the necessary precautions, you can minimize your chances of sustaining a traumatic brain injury while enjoying your favorite sports and recreational activities.

Violence and Assault

You’re likely aware that violence and assault can lead to traumatic brain injury, but you might not realize just how common these causes of traumatic brain injuries are.

Physical Altercations

Physical altercations, including violence and assault, can be a devastating cause of traumatic brain injury. When you’re involved in a physical fight, your brain is at risk of injury from blows to the head, falls, or other forms of trauma. Fight dynamics can quickly escalate, leading to severe head injuries.

Some common scenarios that can lead to traumatic brain injury from physical altercations include the following:

• Being punched or kicked in the head during a fight
• Falling and hitting your head on a hard surface during a struggle
• Being struck with an object

Domestic Abuse

As violence and assault continue to be leading causes of traumatic brain injuries, domestic abuse emerges as a significant contributor to these devastating outcomes. Here’s what to know:

• The emotional impact of domestic abuse can be just as severe as the physical injury, affecting your self-esteem, confidence, and overall well-being.
• The recovery process for traumatic brain injuries resulting from domestic abuse can be challenging, requiring a thorough treatment plan that addresses both physical and emotional trauma.
• It’s important to recognize the signs of domestic abuse and seek help immediately to prevent further injury and promote a safe recovery environment.

Medical Conditions and Complications in Fort Lauderdale

You may be surprised to learn that certain medical conditions and complications can increase your risk of traumatic brain injury. 

Genetic Predispositions

Genetic predispositions play a significant role in increasing the risk of traumatic brain injury (TBI). You may be more susceptible to TBI due to hereditary factors that affect your brain’s structure and function. Research has identified specific genetic markers that can increase your risk of TBI.

Some genetic factors that contribute to TBI risk include:

• Apolipoprotein E (APOE) gene variants, which affect brain recovery after injury
• Genetic variations in the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) gene, which influence neural plasticity and recovery
• Genetic mutations in the collagen type IV alpha 1 (COL4A1) gene, which affect blood vessel structure and increase the risk of cerebral edema

Understanding your genetic predispositions can help you take preventative measures to reduce your risk of TBI.

Infections and Inflammation

Certain medical conditions and complications, including infections and inflammation, can greatly increase your risk of traumatic brain injury. When you’re exposed to pathogens, your immune response can lead to inflammation in the brain. 

Additionally, some infections can directly damage brain cells, further increasing the risk. It’s important to manage these conditions promptly and effectively to reduce the likelihood of traumatic brain injury. By understanding the role of infections and inflammation, you can take proactive steps to minimize your risk.

Learn More About What Causes a Traumatic Brain Injury

You now understand the various causes of traumatic brain injury, from external forces like blows to the head and sudden impacts to accidents, sports, and violent altercations. The Schiller Kessler Group emphasizes the importance of awareness in mitigating the risk of traumatic brain injury. 

Contact us today for a free consultation.