Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) can present a wide range of symptoms that can vary greatly depending on the severity and location of the injury. These symptoms can be physical, cognitive, or emotional/behavioral in nature.
Physical symptoms of ABI can include:
– Weakness, shaking, stiffness, or poor balance
– Tiredness and changes in sleep patterns
– Seizures or fits
– Headaches
– Changes in vision, smell, or touch
– Difficulty with speech and communication
– Altered sensory abilities, such as impaired vision, touch, or smell
– Impaired physical abilities, such as weakness, tremor, or spasticity
Cognitive symptoms can include:
– Problems with memory
– Problems with concentration or attention
– Difficulty with planning or organization
– Confusion
– Difficulty with communication
– Difficulty with short-term memory
– Poor decision-making
– Problems with attention and/or concentration
Emotional or behavioral symptoms can include:
– Mood swings
– Changes in personality and behavior
– Irritability/Aggression
– Depression/Anxiety
– Lack of insight
– Poor social skills
It’s important to note that these symptoms can be subtle and may not appear immediately after the injury. Sometimes, symptoms might not appear until days, weeks, or even months after the injury. Therefore, it’s crucial to monitor for signs and symptoms, even if none are observed immediately after the injury.
In some cases, ABI can also lead to medical difficulties such as epilepsy. The severity of these symptoms can range from mild to severe, and they can result in either temporary or permanent changes in functioning.
Please consult a healthcare professional if you or someone else is experiencing these symptoms, especially after a head injury or other traumatic event.