Traumatic Brain Injuries Vs Acquired Brain Injuries

Any injury to the brain occurring after birth is classified as an Acquired Brain Injury (ABI). Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) is a specific category of ABI, alongside non-traumatic brain injuries.

Categories of Acquired Brain Injuries

Each type of ABI includes various specific causes and conditions:

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

A TBI is a type of acquired brain injury that occurs due to a sudden and forceful blow or jolt to the head or body. This impact disrupts normal brain function and can lead to a range of symptoms, from mild to severe. Symptoms can include headaches, confusion, memory loss, and, in more severe cases, prolonged unconsciousness or even permanent cognitive and behavioral impairments. Due to the potential long-term consequences, prompt diagnosis, and appropriate medical intervention are critical for individuals who may have suffered a traumatic brain injury.

Non-Traumatic Brain Injury (Non-TBI)

A Non-TBI refers to damage to the brain that occurs without an external force or sudden impact to the head, such as internal factors or medical conditions. These conditions may include strokes, aneurysms, infections, prolonged seizures, brain tumors, anoxic or hypoxic injuries, and inflammatory conditions such as encephalitis. Symptoms vary widely based on injury severity, affected brain regions, and other factors. However, common ones include difficulty staying awake, slurred speech, headaches, dizziness, seizures, nausea, memory loss, and mood changes. As the brain governs all aspects of life, any damage can impact physical, intellectual, behavioral, social, and emotional facets. 

Most Common Causes of Acquired Brain Injuries

The most common contributors to ABIs include the following:

Traumatic Brain Injuries 

• Falls: Especially prevalent among the elderly and young children, falls can result in head injuries leading to TBIs.
• Motor Vehicle Accidents: Car accidents and sudden stops can cause significant head trauma, contributing to TBIs.
• Struck by or Against an Object: Workplace accidents or incidents where objects strike the head can result in TBIs.
• Sports Injuries: High-impact sports like football, soccer, and boxing elevate the risk of concussions and severe TBIs.
• Acts of Violence: Domestic violence, assaults, and incidents involving physical harm can lead to traumatic brain injuries.

Non-Traumatic Brain Injuries

• Strokes: Caused by a sudden interruption of blood supply to the brain, either due to a blockage or a ruptured blood vessel.
• Aneurysms: Bulging or ballooning of blood vessels in the brain, which, if ruptured, can lead to bleeding and brain damage.
• Infections: Conditions like meningitis or encephalitis can cause inflammation and damage to brain tissues.
• Seizures: Prolonged seizures have the potential to harm brain cells and result in brain injuries.
• Brain Tumors: Growing tumors can exert pressure on surrounding brain structures, causing damage.
• Anoxic or Hypoxic Injuries: Resulting from a lack of oxygen, often seen in incidents like drowning or choking.

Understanding the diverse causes of ABIs is crucial for prevention, early intervention, and providing appropriate medical care to individuals affected by these injuries.

How an Attorney Can Help

If you or a loved one has suffered an ABI due to the negligence of another party, seeking the assistance of an Albuquerque brain injury attorney can be invaluable. A skilled personal injury attorney can navigate the complexities of the legal system on your behalf. They can investigate the circumstances surrounding the injury, gather evidence, and build a compelling case to establish negligence. Additionally, an attorney can engage with insurance companies, negotiate settlements, or, if necessary, represent you in court to seek fair compensation for the profound impact the brain injury has had on your life.