Fact 11: The Potential for Long-Term Complications from Traumatic Brain Injury
While some individuals with TBI recover fully, others might experience long-term complications. These complications can affect all aspects of life, including physical health, cognitive abilities, emotional wellbeing, and social functioning.
Physically, individuals might experience seizures, recurrent headaches, vertigo, and an increased risk for conditions like Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, and other types of dementia. There might be lasting or progressive damage to the brain that leads to long-term disabilities or death.
Cognitive complications can include long-term changes in memory, learning, concentration, executive functioning, and communication skills. These cognitive deficits can affect a person’s ability to work or return to school, impacting their future opportunities.
Emotionally, individuals may experience personality changes, ongoing emotional instability, and psychiatric disorders, including depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder. These emotional issues can strain personal relationships, leading to social isolation and an increased risk of suicide.
Socially, the changes in personality and cognitive abilities, combined with physical disabilities, might lead to difficulties in social interactions, maintaining friendships, or holding down a job. These challenges can lead to a reduced quality of life and increased dependence on caregivers.(11)
