Beyond the Basics: Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) Pt 2

Understanding the Basics of Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) is a major health concern caused by external impacts that result in changes in brain function and structure. Exploring the world of TBI reveals different classifications based on the severity and cause of the injury. 

This series will examine in detail the various categories of TBI, providing insight into the complexities and nuances of these brain injuries. From mild concussions to severe brain trauma, gain an understanding of the intricacies of TBI and the factors that set them apart. SO….I would like to welcome you back to another minute in the clouds with Greg. 

A Minute in the Clouds With Greg Day 17! 

My name is Greg Shaw, and for the past 16 days, I have been live streaming on YouTube. Today is Day 17! If you haven’t watched the previous videos or read the articles, check them out. And if you’re new to the channel, welcome! I’m glad you’re here. If you like today’s video, give it a thumbs up and subscribe to the channel and newsletter. Click the bell if you would like to be notified when I post new content. 

It’s not easy to create content when you have health problems. Leave a comment with any feedback on how I can improve these videos or suggest content you’d like to see, and I’ll try to make it happen. So let’s dive in…

From Concussions to Contusions: Classifying TBI

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) is a term that includes any disruption in normal brain function or the presence of brain damage, both caused by external force. This force can be from different sources, such as a fall, a car accident, or a sports-related injury.

To better understand and classify these types of injuries, a common classification system has been developed. This system categorizes traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) based on their severity and the mechanism of the injury. Considering these factors enables medical professionals to diagnose and treat TBI patients effectively. They can tailor their approach to meet the specific needs and circumstances of each individual case.

This classification system not only helps provide appropriate medical care but also aids in research and improves our overall understanding of traumatic brain injuries. By gaining more knowledge about these types of injuries, we can work towards better prevention strategies and enhance the quality of life for those affected by TBI.

Based on Severity

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI) vary greatly in their impact on an individual, with some being relatively minor disturbances and others having profound life-altering consequences. The severity of a TBI can influence both the immediate treatment required and the long-term prognosis. 

Categorizing TBIs based on their severity allows for a systematic and focused approach to care, ensuring that patients receive appropriate interventions. This categorization into mild, moderate, and severe TBI gives clarity to healthcare professionals, patients, and their families about the nature of the injury and the potential challenges ahead.

Mild TBI (mTBI)

Mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI), often referred to as a concussion, is characterized by temporary symptoms such as headaches, confusion, dizziness, and memory complaints. Despite its classification as “mild,” the effects can be severe and persist for an extended period of time.

Moderate TBI

Moderate TBIs often result in a longer period of unconsciousness or amnesia after the injury. These injuries may cause physical, cognitive, or behavioral impairments, which could be permanent or resolve over time.

Severe TBI 

Severe traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are typically the result of significant force. These injuries can lead to extended periods of unconsciousness or amnesia and may result in permanent cognitive, physical, and behavioral impairments.

Based on Mechanism of Injury

Based on the mechanism of injury, understanding the cause behind a Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) is equally important to determining its immediate and potential long-term impact. The manner in which the brain is injured often determines the type of medical intervention needed, the expected recovery path, and possible complications. 

Classifying TBIs based on their causes allows for a more personalized approach to diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation. From external forces to internal chemical imbalances, the following classifications provide further insight into the diverse origins of TBIs.

Closed TBI

Closed TBI occurs when the head receives a blunt force, typically from striking an object or experiencing rapid movement without penetration of the skull. For example, in car accidents, the brain can be jolted against the inside of the skull, resulting in injury.

Open or Penetrating TBI

This type of injury occurs when an object penetrates the skull and enters the brain tissue. Examples include gunshot wounds or injuries caused by sharp objects.

Deceleration Injuries 

Deceleration injuries occur when the skull suddenly stops after being in motion, causing the brain to move or twist inside the skull. This can result in direct injury to the brain and the shearing of brain fibers.

Chemical or Toxic

Some chemicals can harm the brain when ingested, leading to symptoms similar to those of traumatic brain injury (TBI). While this is not typically classified as TBI, it can mimic its effects.

Hypoxia or Anoxia

Hypoxia or Anoxia occurs when the brain does not receive enough oxygen. This can lead to cognitive and physical impairments that are similar to those caused by TBI, even though it is technically a different mechanism of injury.

Blast Injuries 

Blast injuries are common in military combat situations. The force from an explosion can cause traumatic brain injury (TBI), especially in closed spaces or in close proximity to the blast.

Other Classifications

In addition to categorizing traumatic brain injuries (TBI) based on the mechanism of injury, there are other important classifications that provide further insights into the nature and potential consequences of these injuries. These categories delve into different aspects of TBI, highlighting various injury patterns and their implications. 

By understanding these additional classifications, one can obtain a comprehensive view of TBIs, including a wider range of causes and effects. This, in turn, facilitates more accurate diagnosis and tailored interventions.

Diffuse Axonal Injury (DAI)

Diffuse Axonal Injury (DAI) occurs when the brain moves within the skull, causing shearing or tearing of the brain’s long connecting fibers known as axons. This type of injury is commonly observed in car accidents and is considered one of the most severe forms of Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI).

Coup-Contrecoup Injury

Coup-Contrecoup Injury occurs when the brain is injured directly beneath the point of impact and on the opposite side. This happens when the force impacting the head is strong enough to cause a contusion at the site of impact and also moves the brain, causing it to slam into the opposite side of the skull. 

A Month of Sundays

The topic is extremely complex, involving numerous interrelated factors that make it both intricate and technical. There are countless aspects to explore, so many in fact that I could disappear down various rabbit holes for a month on Sundays! 

What a strange saying, “A Month of Sundays.” I’ve never tried to figure out its origin, but it’s something people in England often say. (In case you haven’t noticed, apparently I still speak with an accent!) 

It’s funny, people in the States say I have a British accent, while people in the UK say I have a “Yankee” accent! LOL

Traumatic Brain Injuries: An Invisible Epidemic | Sofia Melnychuck

Sofia Melnychuck, a junior at BASIS Tucson North and author of “Brain Power: Neurology for Kids!”, delved into the complexities of traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) and invisible injuries in her talk. Known for her children’s books that tackle intricate medical topics, Sofia emphasizes the significance of brain health.

Beyond her writing, she serves as the National Co-Director of ThinkSTEAM, a nonprofit promoting girls in STEM via arts, and volunteers at The University of Arizona’s BIO5 research lab. Her insights into brain injury, particularly TBI, were shared at a community-organized TEDx event. Further details can be found at TEDx’s website.

Anyway, I am going to try to avoid going down the rabbit holes for a moment. (Usually, that is about as long as I can manage to pay attention and not explore the fascinating world inside the rabbit holes.) 

And I just want to mention that there are also many other factors, some of which we may or may not discuss, such as:

• Concussions – a form of traumatic brain injury (TBI) that can occur due to an impact, blow, or jolt to the head or body. This causes the brain to move rapidly within the skull, leading to chemical changes and possible harm to brain cells. 

• Brain hemorrhages, such as Intracranial Hemorrhage – Mechanisms of Secondary Brain Injury
• Intracranial hematomas
• Second impact syndrome
• Shaken Baby Syndrome

It is important to understand that a person can experience a combination of these injuries simultaneously, and the outcomes can vary widely depending on the individual and the nature of the injury. 

This concludes today’s message. I hope you found it informative.
Join me again tomorrow as we explore the world of Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs) in more depth.

What I’m Thankful For Today

I am grateful for my computer today. It is my connection to the outside world, and without it, I would not be able to create these videos and articles or share a message of hope, kindness, and mental health awareness online. 

It allows me to stay connected, learn new things, and express myself creatively. 

I am truly thankful for it.

What Are You Grateful for Today?

Let me know in the comments and tell me if there is any content or topics you would like me to discuss. As always, thank you for watching. I love you all! See you tomorrow, and remember: 

TAKE CARE OF YOUR MIND.