Broken bones heal. Bruises fade. Most parts of the body are capable of healing themselves, with a few exceptions. The brain is one of few body parts that can’t heal as well as the rest.
Although not all brain injuries are permanent ones, those with the most severe can have long-lasting effects on their victims. Let’s examine the brain’s ability to heal from an injury.
Mild Brain Injuries Often Heal
Most mild traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) don’t cause permanent damage, unlike concussions. Mild brain injuries can cause cumulative damage. This is why a second concussion can cause more damage than the first.
According to the Centers for Disease and Control Prevention, many factors can impact recovery time for mild brain injuries. These factors include:
- The age of the person
- They were in good health before the injury.
- How well the injured person takes good care of themselves after an injury
Research has identified several factors that make it similar to living with chronic diseases like a TBI.
- These injuries can be permanent.
- They need specialized rehabilitation training and may require long periods of observation, supervision or care.
- Serious TBIs can reduce life expectancy and increase the risk of long-term death.
- These are associated with an increased incidence of seizures, sleep disorders and neurodegenerative diseases.
- TBIs can also be associated with other disorders, such as sexual dysfunction, bladder or bowel incontinence, metabolic problems, and even non-neurological ones.
After a brain injury, these effects can last for many months or years. TBI is a condition that can be treated. Many people who have suffered from it will eventually recover.
How to Help Your Brain Heal?
Medical treatment and supervision are the best tools for managing life after TBI. These CDC recommendations will be beneficial to all TBI victims, particularly those with milder injuries.
- It is important to get enough sleep each night and to rest as much as you need throughout the day.
- Avoid doing anything physically or mentally demanding.
- Avoid activities that may lead to another concussion.
- You can return gradually to certain activities once your doctor gives you permission.
- Do not return to work until you have been cleared by your doctor.
- When you feel well, slowly return to work.
- Only take medications that have been approved by your doctor.
- Drink alcohol only after your doctor has approved it.
- Do not stare at screens for too long.
- You may lose your ability to remember important information.
Your brain will heal over time. Be patient. If you are unsure if you are ready for a particular activity, be cautious and choose rest and self-care to take on physically and mentally demanding tasks.
Summarized from an article by Berg Injury Lawyers.
