Traumatic Brain Injury Overview

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), often called the signature wound of the Iraq and Afghanistan wars, occurs when a sudden trauma or head injury disrupts the function of the brain. Common causes of TBI include damage caused by explosive devices, falls and vehicle or motorcycle accidents. Most reported TBI among Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom servicemembers and veterans has been traced back to Improvised Explosive Devices, or IEDs, used extensively against Coalition Forces.

Disability Compensation

The VA recently increased the disability rating for TBI vets. Depending on the extent of the injury, vets are now eligible up to 100% disablity rating; this change goes into effect on October 24, 2008 and older cases may have their case reviewed. If you are military veteran with a service-related disability you may qualify for compensation ranging from $117 to more than $3,000 in monthly benefits. Learn more about veteran disability compensation.

Range of Symptoms

Symptoms can appear immediately or weeks to months following the injury. Depending upon the severity of the wound, TBI injuries fall into different categories:

Read more