Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) is a disruption in the normal function of the brain that can be caused by a blow, bump or jolt to the head, the head suddenly and violently hitting an object or when an object pierces the skull and enters brain tissue. Observing one of the following clinical signs constitutes alteration in the normal brain function:
Symptoms of a TBI can be mild, moderate, or severe, depending on the extent of damage to the brain. Mild cases may result in a brief change in mental state or consciousness. Severe cases may result in extended periods of unconsciousness, coma, or even death.
According to their aetiology, head injuries can generally be categorised into two groups. Both head injuries from shaking and head injuries from impacts to the head are possible.
Although they most frequently occur in infants and young children, head injuries from shaking can happen to anyone at any time.
A hit to the head frequently results in head injuries that:
