So what is a TBI ?

June 9, 2019

What is a TBI?

A TBI is caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head that disrupts the normal function of the brain. . Our son Ronan suffered a severe TBI that was near fatal but not all blows or jolts to the head result in a TBI.

The severity of a TBI may range from “mild” (i.e., a brief change in mental status or consciousness) to “severe” (i.e., an extended period of unconsciousness or memory loss after the injury).  Most TBIs that occur each year are mild, commonly called concussions

According to research by the Center for Disease Control (CDC), among TBI-related ED visits and hospitalizations in 2014:​

• Rates of ED visits were highest for persons 75 years of age and older and children 0-4 years of age.

• The leading cause of TBI-related ED visits varied by age:

  • Falls were the leading cause of ED visits among young children aged 0 to 4 years and older adults 65 years and older.

  • Being struck by or against an object was highest among those 5 to 14 years of age.

• The leading cause of TBI-related hospitalizations varied by age:

  • Falls were the leading cause of hospitalizations among children 0 to 17 years and adults 55 years of age and older.

  • Motor vehicle crashes were the leading cause of hospitalizations for adolescents and adults aged 15 to 44 years of age.

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Everybody wants to Keep children and teens healthy and safe and at at PGHF this is always a top priority. The CDC has created a site focused on "heads up" injury awareness and whether you are a parent, youth sports coach, school coach, school professional, or health care provider, this site will help you recognize, respond to, and minimize the risk of concussion or other serious brain injury.