What is the Difference Between a Traumatic Brain Injury and a Non-Traumatic Brain Injury?

As we delve into the realm of brain injuries, we recognize two distinct categories: traumatic and non-traumatic. While both can have severe consequences, the fundamental difference lies in their causes.

Our Fort Lauderdale traumatic brain injury lawyer will examine each distinct characteristic and how they impact diagnosis, treatment, and recovery.

The Schiller Kessler Group and our medical professionals strive to provide comprehensive care for individuals affected by brain injuries. Our team has over 30 years of experience handling traumatic and non-traumatic brain injuries. Read on to learn about the difference between a traumatic brain injury and a non-traumatic brain injury.

Defining Traumatic Brain Injuries

When considering the challenges of brain injuries, it’s important to understand the distinction between traumatic and non-traumatic types. Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) occur when an external force, such as a blow or penetrating head injury, disrupts normal brain function. 

This force can cause damage to brain tissue, leading to a range of symptoms from mild to severe. The mechanism classification of TBIs is based on the severity of the injury, which is typically categorized as mild, moderate, or severe. Mild TBIs, also known as concussions, may cause temporary confusion and disorientation. 

Moderate to severe TBI can result in long-term cognitive and physical impairments. Understanding the mechanism and classification of TBIs is fundamental for determining the most effective treatment approach and predicting injury severity.

Defining Non-Traumatic Brain Injuries

These types of injuries occur when internal factors, rather than external forces, affect brain function. Non-traumatic brain injuries can result from various medical conditions, infections, or diseases that impair brain function.

Brain injury classifications for non-traumatic injuries include anoxic brain injuries, which occur when the brain doesn’t receive enough oxygen. Hypoxic brain injuries, on the other hand, occur when the brain receives some oxygen but not enough. 

Toxic brain injuries result from exposure to toxins, while metabolic brain injuries are caused by disruptions in the body’s metabolic processes.

Other types of non-traumatic brain injuries include encephalitis, meningitis, and brain tumors. Knowing the definitions can help you determine the difference between a traumatic brain injury and a non-traumatic brain injury.

Causes of Traumatic Brain Injuries in Fort Lauderdale

You’re probably aware that car accidents are a leading cause of traumatic brain injuries, with many people sustaining head trauma from crashes every year. 

Car Accidents 

Car accidents are a leading cause of traumatic brain injuries, accounting for a significant proportion of TBI cases. You’re at risk of sustaining a TBI every time you get behind the wheel or ride as a passenger. 

Distracted driving, reckless behavior, and poor vehicle maintenance all increase car accident risks. Furthermore, failure to wear a seatbelt or use airbags can exacerbate the impact of a crash on your brain. 

Improving vehicle safety features, such as advanced airbag systems and crash avoidance technologies, can help reduce the likelihood of a TBI. Additionally, being mindful of your driving habits and encouraging others to do the same can also help minimize the risk of a car accident-related TBI.

Sports Injuries 

Contact sports, particularly those involving high-impact collisions or falls, greatly contribute to the incidence of traumatic brain injuries. You’re at risk of sustaining a TBI when participating in sports like football, hockey, rugby, or soccer. 

Even if you’re wearing protective gear, a severe blow to the head or body can cause your brain to collide with your skull, leading to injury. As you engage in sports, it’s important to prioritize concussion awareness and sports safety. 

Verify that you’re educated on recognizing symptoms, such as dizziness, headaches, or confusion, and take immediate action if you experience them. By being proactive, you can reduce your risk of long-term brain damage and enjoy your favorite sports while staying safe.

Causes of Non-Traumatic Brain Injuries in Fort Lauderdale

You’re likely familiar with the devastating effects of traumatic brain injuries, but non-traumatic brain injuries can be just as severe.

Infections and Illnesses

While the term “brain injury” often conjures images of severe head trauma, non-traumatic brain injuries can arise from a variety of sources, including infections and illnesses. You may not realize that some illnesses can affect your brain, leading to non-traumatic brain injuries. Common illnesses that can cause a non-traumatic brain injury include:

• Viral infections like meningitis and encephalitis can cause inflammation in the brain, leading to injury.
• Bacterial infections such as sepsis can also cause brain injury by reducing blood flow to the brain.
• Certain illnesses like autoimmune disorders can lead to brain inflammation and injury.
• Even some medications can cause brain injury as a side effect.

Lack of Oxygen

When the brain doesn’t receive sufficient oxygen, it can lead to devastating consequences, including non-traumatic brain injury. You may experience oxygen deprivation due to various reasons, such as cardiac arrest, near-drowning, or respiratory failure. 

Without oxygen, brain cells begin to die, causing irreversible brain damage. This can result in cognitive, emotional, and physical impairments. The severity of the injury depends on the duration and extent of oxygen deprivation. 

If you’ve suffered from a lack of oxygen, it’s important to seek immediate medical attention to minimize the damage. Prompt treatment can markedly improve your chances of recovery and reduce the risk of long-term brain damage.

Symptoms and Diagnosis of Traumatic Brain Injuries and Non-Traumatic Brain Injuries

Identifying the symptoms of a brain injury can be a complicated process, as they often vary widely depending on the severity and location of the injury. You may experience physical, cognitive, or emotional symptoms or a combination of all three.

Some common symptoms of brain injury include:

• Headaches, dizziness, or loss of balance
• Confusion, disorientation, or difficulty concentrating
• Memory problems, mood changes, or emotional instability
• Numbness or tingling in the hands and feet or difficulty with coordination and movement

Symptom identification is important for accurate diagnosis. Diagnostic imaging, such as CT or MRI scans, can help healthcare professionals visualize the brain and identify the extent of the injury. Imaging can also determine the difference between a traumatic brain injury and a non-traumatic brain injury.

Learn More About Differences Between Traumatic Brain Injuries and Non-Traumatic Brain Injuries

You now understand the distinction between traumatic brain injuries and non-traumatic brain injuries. TBIs result from external forces, while non-traumatic injuries stem from internal factors. The Schiller Kessler Group emphasizes the importance of this distinction in ensuring optimal care. 

Contact us today for a free consultation.