A traumatic brain injury (TBI) is an injury that affects how the brain works. It can be caused by a forceful bump, blow, or jolt to the head or body, or from an object that pierces the skull and enters the brain. There are three main types of TBI:
- Penetrating injury: This is caused by an object that goes through the skull and enters the brain, such as a bullet or shrapnel.
- Closed head injury: This is caused by an external force strong enough to move the brain within the skull, such as a bump, blow, or jolt to the head or body.
- Concussion: This is a mild form of TBI that can be caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head or body, or from an object that pierces the skull and enters the brain.
TBI is a major cause of death and disability in the United States. Anyone can experience a TBI, but some groups are at greater risk for getting a TBI or having worse health outcomes after the injury. The most common causes of TBI are falls, firearm-related injury, motor vehicle crashes, or assault. Depending on the severity of the injury, those who get a TBI may face health problems that last a few days or the rest of their lives.
