Traumatic Brain Injury - Essay Example

Traumatic brain injuries refer to brain damage resulting from violent movements or blows to the head. Severe traumatic brain injury may occur in the absence of contact with a hard object as in the case of car accidents and servicemen exposed to the shock of an explosion.Impacts, physical, of traumatic brain injury bear a dependence on the injury’s severity. Severe headaches, fatigue, physical paralysis, and decreased level of alertness are common symptoms associated with TBI. Patients who have suffered from traumatic brain injury may suffer from seizure disorders involving irritability and behavior change.

The patient may also suffer from cognitive problems where the memory and emotional response are affected. The patient may experience an outburst of emotions that range from lack of interest to overreacting. Diminished impulse control leads enhanced interpersonal problems where coping skills fail to function and may result in depression (Gainer, 2004, p. 43).Traumatic brain injuries require a substantial amount of time in order to recover from it. During this period, the family and society in general are tasked with coping, managing and enduring the stress involved with caring of the affected patient.

The society has to bear the behavioral changes associated with the brain injury.Axonal shearing injury occurs due to sudden movement of the brain, which results in tearing of brain tissue. This may cause bruising and swelling, which may add more pressure to the brain itself. It is therefore, necessary to ensure great care when handling the patient so as not to cause any more harm or damage (The patient Education Institute, 2009, p. 3). This is achieved by ensuring that the patient is in a safe environment with minimal agitation.

Individuals handling the patient should also ensure that the patient is kept at zero rated stress levels with the assurance that all will be well.In conclusion, traumatic brain injuries are potentially fatal if not diagnosed, managed, and treated in time. It is also critical to ensure that injuries to the torso are not incurred by observing all safety measures.ReferencesThe patient education institute. (2009). Traumatic Brain Injury: Reference Summary. Retrieved 15 August 2012 from http://www.nlm.nih.

gov/medlineplus/tutorials/traumaticbraininjury/nr289101.pdfGainer, R., (2004). Psychritric Issues in Traumatic Brain Injury. Retrieved 15 August 2012 from http://www.traumaticbraininjury.net/files/resources/Psychiatric%20Issues%20in%20Traumatic%20Brain%20Injury.pdf