Brain injuries can have an impact on a person’s life and ability to function normally. These injuries occur when there is a sudden blow or jolt to the head, disrupting normal brain function.
The symptoms of a brain injury may develop right after the initial trauma to the head or hours or even days later, and it is important to understand how they may manifest.
Physical symptoms
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 223,135 people went to the hospital for a brain injury in 2019, and many experienced physical symptoms. One of the most common signs of a brain injury is persistent and intense headaches. These headaches can vary in severity and may not respond well to pain relievers. Other physical symptoms include feeling nauseous or vomiting, experiencing extreme fatigue and changes in sensory perception.
Cognitive symptoms
Difficulty remembering recent events, conversations and important details is an expected cognitive symptom of a brain injury. Brain injuries can also lead to confusion and difficulty concentrating, speech difficulties and problems processing information.
Emotional and behavioral symptoms
Brain injuries can cause mood swings, irritability and emotional instability and people might experience sudden changes in their emotions. Additionally, it is not uncommon for brain injury survivors to develop symptoms of anxiety and depression, even if they did not have these conditions before.
Sleep disturbances
Brain injuries can disrupt sleep patterns, leading to difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep. On the other hand, some individuals might experience excessive sleepiness and find themselves sleeping more than usual.
Recognizing the symptoms of a brain injury is important for seeking timely medical attention. Early diagnosis and treatment can improve the chances of recovery and minimize long-term effects.
