The brain is remarkably complex, which is one reason why there are many different types of brain injuries. The amount of trauma and location of the damage can play a major role in the type and effects of such an injury. In order to assess trauma to the head and brain, it is essential to understand some of the major types of brain injury.

What exactly is a brain injury? According to the Brain Injury Association of America, a brain injury is "caused by an external physical force, which may produce a diminished or altered state of consciousness, which results in an impairment of cognitive abilities or physical functioning." Some brain injuries are temporary and will improve with time, while other are permanent and can lead to a partial or complete loss of function.

Diffuse Axonal Injury

This type of brain injury is caused by excessive shaking, jarring or turning of the head. Shaken baby syndrome and car accidents are two examples of diffuse axonal injury. The excessive force causes tearing of the brain structures, which then disrupts communication between different areas of the brain, as well as the rest of the body. This type of trauma can lead to temporary injury, permanent brain damage, coma or death.

Concussion

A concussion is another type of brain injury that is often caused by direct trauma to the head, but it can also result from excessive shaking, gunshot wounds and whiplash. The injured person may lose consciousness or feed dizzy or dazed after the injury. Bleeding inside the brain, skull fractures and swelling can also occur and can even lead to fatal blood clots.

Penetration Injury

This type of brain injury occurs when an outside object penetrates the skull and brain. Gunshot wounds, knife injuries and shrapnel are examples of this type of trauma. This brain injury can lead to a range of problems include loss of function, paralysis, coma, permanent brain damage and death.

Brain injuries can have devastating impacts on both the victim and family members. Immediate medical intervention is essential. In order to assess an injury and determine a proper course of action, it is important to understand the basic types of brain injury.