Have you ever stopped to think about how your whole life could change in an instant? While it may not be immediately apparent, the impact of a traumatic brain injury (TBI) can last a lifetime.
Whether it’s you or a loved one, understanding the long-term impact of a TBI is crucial for recovery and support.
What causes a traumatic brain injury?
A TBI happens when a sudden blow to the head jostles the brain. It can happen during a fall, sporting event or car accident. TBIs are categorized as mild, moderate or severe. Football fans are familiar with the NFL’s concussion protocol that makes hits to the head illegal and makes players undergo a 5-phase return-to-play program after being sidelined.
As researchers continue to learn more about the human brain, we are now realizing the long-term consequences of a TBI. While outcomes vary due to injury severity, the affected area of the brain and access to medical treatment, the impacts fall into three main categories:
- Cognitive: A TBI can cause problems with memory, attention span and problem-solving. The affected person’s ability to process information makes routine tasks overwhelming.
- Physical: A person with a TBI may experience chronic pain, persistent fatigue, dizziness, headaches and seizures. In severe TBI cases, the individual could have mobility issues or paralysis.
- Emotional and behavioral: Our brain regulates our mood and emotional responses. Damage to specific areas of the brain can alter how we feel and react. Depression, anxiety, irritability, mood swings and personality changes can complicate relationships with co-workers, friends and family.
Medical treatment and rehabilitation are critical for managing the changes brought on by a TBI. Counseling is also essential to helping an individual adjust to their new normal. These things take time and money. Medical expenses and lost wages lead to financial insecurity. If another person’s negligence caused the TBI, pursuing compensation is crucial.