An accident at work or on the daily commute can cause people to sustain a traumatic brain injury. Many people may hope that with time, their loved ones will experience some degree of improvement. However, a TBI can have a long-term effect on people’s lives.
Sometimes, a brain injury can lead to other kinds of problems. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says that people may experience worse health after their injury. One study found that patients are 11 times more likely to experience drug poisoning and 6 times more likely to develop pneumonia. People also have a higher risk of developing infections and having seizures. Additionally, a brain injury can impact a person’s life span. Another study found that five years after sustaining a brain injury, 22% of patients died, while 30% experienced worse symptoms.
How do brain injuries affect motor skills?
Traumatic brain injuries can have a serious impact on a patient’s basic motor skills. Brainline says that some brain injuries can cause people to experience uncontrolled movements, muscle stiffness or paralysis. People may also have changes in their vision and find themselves unable to pick up objects and carry them across the room. In some situations, people may have difficulty using their fine motor skills.
How do symptoms affect a patient’s life?
The loss of both gross and fine motor skills can make it more difficult for people to live their lives independently. Some patients may need family members to cut their food and button their shirts. Other people may be unable to walk without assistance.
The kinds of symptoms that patients experience have different implications for their lives. Sometimes, patients may be able to do other kinds of work after their injury. However, some symptoms, such as paralysis, may mean that people are unable to return to work. In some situations, people may need full-time caregivers.
Because brain injuries can have such a significant impact on people’s lives, it is important for families to make sure that their loved ones receive the necessary care to help them cope with the symptoms.
