Traumatic Brain Injury

Traumatic Brain Injury is most often the result of a sudden and violent blow to the head that causes the brain to collide with the inside of the skull. This collision bruises the brain, tears nerve fibers, and can result in internal bleeding. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' National Institutes of Health, half of all traumatic brain injuries are the result of accidents involving cars, motorcycles, or bicycles, while approximately another 20 percent are caused by acts of violence, such as gunshot wounds or by incidents of child abuse.

As a result of the Iraq and Afghanistan wars, the U.S. military has seen a significant increase in TBI, which is being referred to as the "signature wound" of those military conflicts. Explosions account for 75 percent of combat related injuries and include not only the deadly shrapnel, but also the resulting blast wave itself that can cause brain concussion. This latter point is critical for American soldiers and veterans because some of them may not be aware that repeated exposure to blast waves can result in brain injury. In other words, while TBI can be the result of one single violent event, it can also occur from a series of less violent attacks. According to The American Veterans and Service-members Survival Guide (2008), individuals who suffer from TBI will experience some of the following challenges:

--Trouble with memory, attention, or concentration

--Sensitivity to sounds, lights, or distractions

--Impaired decision making ability or problem solving

--Difficulty with controlling behavior or increased impulsiveness

--Easily confused or overwhelmed

--Changes in sleep patterns

The current policy of the United States Veterans Administration requires that all veterans of the Iraq and Afghanistan wars be screened for TBI when they receive medical care. Post-traumatic Stress Disorder, Depression, and Traumatic Brain Injury have similar symptoms, thus this screening is vital for an accurate diagnosis and treatment. Most TBI injuries are mild and resolved within one year. However, as many as 20 percent of veterans may suffer from prolonged symptoms and require on-going specialized treatment.

Contributed by Ken Loos, MS, LMLP, LCP Prevention, Education, and Outreach Dept.

Mail questions to: High Plains Mental Health Center, PLAIN SENSE, Prevention, Education, and Outreach Department, 208 East 7th, Hays, KS 67601; or visit www.highplainsmentalhealth.com.

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