aivovammasta

Aivovamma (brain injury) denotes damage to the brain resulting from an external mechanical force or other insults to brain tissue. The term covers traumatic brain injury (TBI) as well as non-traumatic injuries such as hypoxic injury, stroke, infection, tumor, or toxins. In Finnish usage, aivovammasta is the genitive form used in phrases referring to brain injury.

Traumatic brain injury is usually described by severity (mild, moderate, severe) and by mechanism (blunt impact, penetrating injury). Primary injury occurs at impact, while secondary injury evolves over hours to days due to swelling, bleeding, hypoxia, or inflammation.

Symptoms vary and may include headache, confusion, dizziness, nausea, loss of consciousness, sensory or motor changes, speech difficulties, memory problems, or mood changes. Some people recover quickly; others have lasting cognitive or behavioral effects.

Diagnosis relies on clinical assessment, the Glasgow Coma Scale, and imaging, typically a CT scan to identify bleeding or fractures; MRI may be used for detailed views. Neuropsychological testing helps plan rehabilitation.

Treatment focuses on stabilization, preventing secondary injury, and rehabilitation. Acute care may involve surgical intervention for hematomas and intracranial pressure management, followed by physical, occupational, and cognitive rehabilitation. Prevention measures include helmets, seat belts, fall prevention, and sports concussion protocols.

Prognosis depends on severity, age, and health. Mild TBIs often improve within days to weeks; severe injuries can cause long-term deficits. Public health efforts seek to reduce risk and improve rapid access to care.