With most traumatic brain injuries, it is usually evident to the patient or family members. But what about more minor brain injuries (such as a minor stroke) where it’s not immediately apparent that a brain injury has taken place? In other words, is it possible to have a traumatic brain injury without knowing it?
Even minor brain injuries may require post-acute rehabilitation in order to return the patient to their pre-injury condition. Staff can work with patients through therapy to help patients reduce symptoms and to return to activities of daily living without disruption.
It’s essential to have a good understanding of brain injuries, symptoms, and recovery so you can support your loved one through the process of healing.
Concussions are usually considered to be a mild brain injury. Sometimes people are unaware they have a head injury.
Or, maybe they hit their head during a slip or fall. Or perhaps they were in a mild car accident and hit their head.
Symptoms may be obvious, such as headaches, lack of consciousness, or dizziness, but sometimes they are not. Some more subtle symptoms can include:
If any of these symptoms are experienced after a head injury, then it is crucial to be evaluated by a medical provider.
How long does it take to recover from a concussion? Usually two weeks to 1 month, but in 20% of patients, it can take longer than six weeks. In those cases, rehab for brain injury becomes even more essential for the patient to recover fully.
With brain damage, there is the actual destruction of brain cells. People with brain damage may have severe symptoms. They may have disorientation and not be able to tell you where they are or what the time is. They also may have an inability to process emotions.
People with brain damage may have balance issues and sensitivity to pain and light. They may have difficulty with communication, including listening and expressing verbally. Brain damage patients may have frequent headaches and extreme mental and physical fatigue.
In many cases, brain damage is caused by a severe accident, stroke, or another serious medical event.
It is possible to have a brain injury without having symptoms, but they may surface weeks later. The patient may suddenly experience headaches or dizziness, and it is possible not to remember having the injury.
The patient may also have mental health symptoms such as depression or anxiety. Or be more fatigued. These can also be symptoms of a head injury though you may not relate the symptoms to a head injury.
Both head injury and brain injury are usually terms used when an injury to the head and the brain is involved. Sometimes when the words are used, “brain injury” is used when a more severe injury. Also, we often hear “brain injury” when rehab for brain injury is necessary.
It is important to know that a brain injury is a more serious problem, and damage to the brain generally requires help at a neuro-rehabilitation center to make a full recovery. A traumatic brain injury may have a permanent effect on the patient’s quality of life, which is not always the case with a head injury.
That said, there is hope for recovery and improved quality of life with help from a well-trained, compassionate treatment team.
Moderate or severe Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs) can result in some amount of permanent disability. However, post-acute rehabilitation can help reduce the degree of disability the individual experiences. Patients can also learn to live with the long-term effects and coping mechanisms for success.
This is where rehabilitation is so important. Not only are the physical challenges overwhelming, but the emotional challenges are tough. Facing the implication and factoring that they may have difficulty “returning to normal” can be devastating for TBI patients and loved ones.
Neuro Rehab staff helps both patients and family members heal and find hope within this new normal. With the treatment team’s assistance, both patients and staff understand they are not alone in the process and have hope for healing. This is how you can have the best outcome for the patient in the long term.
At NeuLife Rehabilitation Center we are known as one of the best and TBI rehab centers in Florida and throughout the southeast. Our clinicians will treat a wide range of diagnoses with the ultimate goal of helping address physical and emotional implications after brain injury.
Our facility successfully helps patients through structured programming, including speech, physical therapy, medical care, skills development, nutrition and exercise, and mental health therapies, including CBT.
We can help patients to get their life back. If you would like more information about our services, do not hesitate to contact us today. Make a referral or give us a call at 800.626.3876.
The material contained on this site is for informational purposes only and DOES NOT CONSTITUTE THE PROVIDING OF MEDICAL ADVICE, and is not intended to be a substitute for independent professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health.
We know that choosing the next step in your recovery from a catastrophic illness or injury is complex. Together, we can help you take the next step.
Contact us with any questions today.
