As awareness of traumatic brain injury (TBI) grows, parents are seeking answers about its causes, long-term effects, and how to best support their children. Two recent questions have emerged from discussions with parents:
- What is the difference between acquired brain injury (ABI) and traumatic brain injury (TBI)?
- Are you at greater risk for a TBI if you have already sustained one?
Understanding these topics can help families navigate medical care, rehabilitation, and preventive measures more effectively.
1. ABI vs. TBI: Understanding the Difference
Acquired brain injury (ABI) is a broad term that refers to any brain injury occurring after birth that is not congenital, hereditary, degenerative, or caused by birth trauma. ABI is categorized into two types:
- Traumatic brain injury (TBI): Caused by an external force, such as a fall, car crash, sports injury, or an explosive blast.
- Non-traumatic brain injury (NTBI): Results from internal factors such as strokes, oxygen deprivation, tumors, infections (e.g., meningitis), or toxic exposure.
If a doctor classifies a child’s injury as ABI rather than TBI, it likely means the brain injury was caused by a non-traumatic event rather than an external blow. This distinction is crucial in determining medical care and long-term support services.
2. Are you at greater risk for a TBI if you have already sustained one?
Yes, individuals who have had a TBI are at a higher risk for future TBIs due to several factors:
- Brain vulnerability: A previously injured brain is more fragile, increasing susceptibility to further damage.
- Cognitive & physical impairments: Lingering effects such as balance issues, slowed reaction times, and impaired judgment can make future injuries more likely.
- Second impact syndrome (SIS): A rare but serious condition where a second TBI occurs before the first one has fully healed, leading to rapid and severe brain swelling.
Resources for Parents & Families
Parents play a vital role in advocating for proper care, rehabilitation, and prevention. Here are some trusted resources:
- Brain Injury Association of America (BIAA): Provides education, advocacy, and support networks. BIAA Website
- CDC TBI & Concussion Resources: Offers prevention strategies, recovery guidance, and child-specific information. CDC TBI Info
- Concussion Legacy Foundation: Focuses on concussion awareness and long-term effects. Concussion Resources
- CDC HEADS UP Program: Guides parents in recognizing and preventing concussions in children and teens. HEADS UP to Parents
- TBI & School Support – Center on Brain Injury Research & Training (CBIRT): Offers strategies for school accommodations. CBIRT Resources
