Understanding TBI
An acquired brain injury, or TBI, happens when a sudden hit or jolt to the head changes how the brain works. This can happen from an accident, like a fall or a car crash; contact sports; or acts of violence. Learning about these injuries helps our community in Northern Virginia give families the support they need to feel better and stay safe.
About 2.8 million people
In the U.S., this many people face a brain injury every year. Each number is a neighbor or a family member who needs care.
Every 15 seconds
Someone in our country gets a brain injury very often. This is why our group works hard to share facts and help our Northern Virginia community.
Our local community at risk
People in rural areas are more likely to die from a TBI.
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), people living in rural areas have a greater risk of dying from a TBI compared to people living in urban areas. The main cause is health disparities:
- More time needed to travel to get emergency care.
- Less access to level 1 trauma care (highest level of medical care).
- Difficulty getting access to specialized TBI care.
People with lower incomes and those without health insurance have less access to TBI care.
- Those who are uninsured are less likely to receive necessary inpatient services, such as rehabilitation.
- It is not uncommon for TBIs to go undiagnosed, underdiagnosed, or untreated.
- Delays in care hinder successful outcomes.
We are here to help change that.
Where to start
Prevention is key, but if you run into trouble - Know your risk and know where to go for help
If you experience an emergency that causes a TBI, call 911. Getting to the emergency room is your first priority. It helps if someone you feel comfortable with goes with you, as you may experience confusion or have a hard time articulating what happened and how you're feeling. After your visit to the ER, you may require follow-up care, including but not limited to inpatient or outpatient rehabilitation services.
TBI Care Specialists
Get to know your symptoms. Write them down. You may look okay to others on the outside, but inside you know something is very wrong. Although not a comprehensive list, common cognitive symptoms include changes with spatial orientation, attention/concentration, memory, sleep, and emotional and behavioral regulation. Physical symptoms may include headaches, changes in vision, balance, and speech.
Consult with your Primary Care Physician about your concerns. If your concern is about a child, contact the pediatrician. Share how symptoms impact daily functioning. Your doctor will suggest the right team of specialists to help restore function and improve your quality of life. If you are still unclear after your initial care appointment, feel free to contact your nearest TBI Model System care facility. They follow best practices for TBI care and may assist to help you find the services you need.
For helpful evidence-based materials covering topics on living with a traumatic brain injury, click here.
Prevention Tips
Simple Steps to Stay Safe
We can all do small things every day to protect our brains and keep our families healthy. Here are some easy ways to lower the risk of injury.
Buckle Up Every Time
Always wear your seatbelt when you are in a car. It is the best way to stay safe if there is an accident.
Protect Your Head
Wear a helmet when riding a bike, skating, or playing contact sports. It keeps your brain safe from hard knocks.
Stop Falls at Home
Keep rugs flat and hallways clear. Good lighting and handrails help everyone, especially seniors, avoid falls.
Stay Sharp on the Road
Never drive after drinking or using substances. If you feel tired or unwell, ask a friend for a ride instead.
Reach Out for Safety
If you don't feel safe at home, please seek help. We can talk about ways to stay safe and connect you with support.
Who is at risk?
Brain injuries can happen to anyone, but some groups face higher risks in our community:
- Older adults over the age of 75 have the highest rate of TBI hospitalizations due to falls, which can lead to a TBI.
- Racial and ethnic minorities have higher rates of TBI-related hospitalizations and deaths than any other group.
- People involved in car or bike accidents.
- Survivors of intimate partner abuse and families of domestic violence.
It is very important to know common symptoms of a concussion / traumatic brain injury. If someone seems confused or extra tired after an accident, fall, or incident of assault/violence, seek help right away. Noticing these signs and getting support early makes a big difference for recovery.