Brain damage typically results from a traumatic impact or penetration that injures brain tissue.
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
TBIs are a common cause of brain damage. They can happen in several ways:
- Blunt Force Trauma: A violent blow or jolt to the head or body, like in a car accident or sports injury, can cause the brain to collide with the inside of the skull. The Overview document states, "Traumatic brain injury usually results from a violent blow or jolt to the head or body."
- Penetrating Injuries: An object piercing the skull and entering brain tissue, such as a bullet or a fragment of shattered skull, directly damages brain cells. The Overview mentions, "An object that goes through brain tissue, such as a bullet or shattered piece of skull, also can cause traumatic brain injury."
- Mild TBI: Even what's considered a mild TBI, like a concussion, can affect brain cells, though often temporarily. The Overview notes that "Mild traumatic brain injury may affect your brain cells temporarily."
