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A traumatic brain injury is caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head, when a penetrating head injury disrupts the normal functioning of the brain; however, not all blows or jolts to the head result in a TBI.
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A TBI can be caused by various things, such as falls, motor-vehicle accidents, assault, and strikes to the head to name a few. The signs and symptoms of TBI may be subtle.
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Though not all traumatic brain injuries can be prevented, there are some preventive actions that can be taken:
•Wear a seat belt while in any motor vehicles
•Children should be appropriately buckled in car seats or booster seats based on their
height, weight, and age
•Never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs
•Wear a helmet during activities, for example:
•Bike riding
•Playing contact sports
•Skating
•Horseback riding
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Shaken baby syndrome is a type of traumatic brain injury seen quite often by pediatric neurologists. The brain bounces back and forth against the skull when an infant or toddler is shaken. This type of TBI can easily cause permanent brain damage or even death.
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Tips to preventing shaken baby syndrome:
•NEVER shake a baby or child in play or in anger. Even gentle shaking can become
violent shaking when you are angry.
•Do not hold your baby during an argument.
•If you find yourself becoming annoyed or angry with your baby, put him or her in the
crib and leave the room. Calm down. Then, call someone for support.
•Call a friend or relative to come and stay with the child if you feel out of control.
•Contact a local crisis hotline or child abuse hotline for help and guidance.
•Seek the help of a counselor and attend parenting classes.
•Do not ignore the signs if you suspect child abuse in your home or in the home of
someone you know.
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References
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