Diffuse axonal injury facts for kids

Diffuse axonal injury (often called DAI) is a common type of brain injury. When someone has a traumatic brain injury, the damage is usually in one spot. But with DAI, the damage spreads out over a larger part of the brain.

DAI mostly harms the white matter in the brain. White matter is like the brain's wiring system. It helps different parts of the brain talk to each other. Because DAI affects this wiring, it can cause someone to become unconscious or go into a persistent vegetative state after a head injury. About half of all serious head injuries involve DAI.

Many people with severe DAI fall into a coma. A coma is a deep state of unconsciousness. Sadly, over 90% of those with severe DAI may never wake up. If they do wake up, they often have lasting problems.

DAI can be mild, moderate, or very severe. A concussion is actually a milder form of diffuse axonal injury.

What is Diffuse Axonal Injury?

Diffuse axonal injury happens when the brain moves quickly inside the skull. This can happen in car accidents or falls. The brain's soft tissue twists and turns. This movement stretches and tears the long nerve fibers called axons. Axons are like tiny cables that send messages in your brain. When they are damaged, brain signals can't travel properly.

How Does DAI Affect the Brain?

The damage from DAI is widespread. It affects many parts of the brain at once. This is different from other brain injuries that might only affect one area. Because the damage is spread out, it can cause many different problems. These problems depend on which parts of the brain's wiring are hurt.

Signs of Diffuse Axonal Injury

The most common sign of severe DAI is a coma. People with milder DAI might have other symptoms. These can include confusion, dizziness, or trouble thinking clearly. They might also have problems with memory or balance.

Recovery from DAI

Recovery from DAI can be very different for each person. It depends on how severe the injury is. People with mild DAI, like a concussion, often recover fully. But those with severe DAI might face long-term challenges. They may need a lot of therapy to help them regain skills. This therapy can include physical, occupational, and speech therapy.

Images for kids

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  This image shows diffuse axonal injury after a motorcycle accident. It was taken using an MRI machine three days after the injury.

See also

In Spanish: Daño axonal difuso para niños