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An acquired brain injury refers to damage to brain tissue that occurs after birth. Approximately 75% of these injuries are traumatic. This means the brain has experienced a pressure wave due to violent shaking or impact, causing it to strike the inside of the skull. The remaining 25% of brain injuries are typically non-traumatic, such as those resulting from strokes.
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) occurs when a sudden force damages the brain. This can involve the brain rotating inside the skull, impacting sharp bony ridges. This rotation may cause what is known as diffuse axonal injury, where brain connections are disrupted over a wide area, leading to complex damage rather than a specific focus of injury.
Strokes can be classified into two main types:
Brain infections, such as those caused by the herpes simplex virus, can lead to swelling and damage. Additionally, conditions like heart attacks or drowning can cut off oxygen to the brain, resulting in injury. Tumours, whether present or surgically removed, also contribute to brain injury.
Brain injuries can lead to hidden disabilities that are not immediately visible. Damage to the brain’s motor areas might require a wheelchair, while injuries to areas like the frontal lobes can cause cognitive and behavioural issues. Individuals may struggle with impulse control, self-awareness, and appropriate social behaviour. These challenges can be misinterpreted as rudeness or poor upbringing, although the person was previously well-functioning and polite.
People with brain injuries may face difficulties with basic functions such as planning and organisation. Damage to the frontal lobes can also result in frustration and difficulty controlling anger. It’s important to understand that these behaviours often stem from the injury rather than personal character flaws.
The brain has a remarkable ability to adapt, known as plasticity. This allows for the formation of new connections and the potential for recovery of lost functions. Effective cognitive rehabilitation can help individuals regain social and cognitive abilities, similar to how physiotherapy aids in restoring motor functions. By supporting cognitive and behavioural rehabilitation, individuals can work towards improving their quality of life.
Thank you for taking the time to learn about acquired brain injuries. Understanding these conditions is crucial for providing appropriate support and fostering effective rehabilitation.
