A Brain Injury: What You Need to Know

Brain injuries that occur after birth known as acquired brain injuries (ABI)—can dramatically change a person's life. Unlike congenital or genetic conditions, ABIs are the result of events or conditions that happen postnatally, and they can affect physical abilities, cognition, emotions, and behavior.

Understanding the types, causes, symptoms, and how occupational therapy plays a role in recovery is essential for patients and their loved ones.

What Is an Acquired Brain Injury?

An acquired brain injury is any damage to the brain that happens after birth and is not related to heredity or birth trauma. These injuries are generally grouped into two categories:

1. Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

This type of brain injury is caused by a sudden physical impact. It could result from:

• A car crash
• A sports-related collision
• A fall
• An assault or blow to the head
  
  

The trauma can cause brain swelling, bleeding, or changes in brain chemistry, leading to a range of symptoms depending on the severity.

2. Non-Traumatic Brain Injury

These injuries happen without an external force and are typically due to internal complications such as:

• Stroke
• Cardiac arrest
• Brain infections (e.g., meningitis)
• Tumors
• Oxygen deprivation (from near-drowning, choking, or poisoning)
• Drug overdoses or toxic exposures
  
  

Recognizing the Symptoms

Depending on the type and severity of the brain injury, symptoms can vary significantly. Here’s what to look out for:

Signs of Mild TBI

• Headaches and confusion
• Dizziness or balance issues
• Vision problems
• Ringing in the ears
• Sleep disturbances or fatigue
• Irritability or mood swings
• Difficulty focusing or remembering
• Brief loss of consciousness
  
  

Symptoms Common in Non-Traumatic Brain Injuries

• Persistent fatigue or weakness
• Paralysis on one side of the body
• Seizures
• Light or sound sensitivity
• Speech and communication difficulties
• Insomnia
• Extended unconsciousness
  
  

 What Causes Brain Injuries?

Many events and medical conditions can lead to a brain injury. Common causes include:

• Motor vehicle accidents
• Slips and falls
• Physical abuse or assault
• Contact sports
• Oxygen deprivation (choking, drowning)
• Strokes or aneurysms
• Tumors and infections
• Exposure to harmful chemicals or drugs
  
  

The Role of Occupational Therapy in Recovery

Recovering from a brain injury takes time and the support of skilled professionals. Occupational therapists (OTs) are trained to help individuals regain independence and functionality in everyday life.

Here’s how OTs help:

• Evaluate the person’s abilities and challenges
• Design a step-by-step rehabilitation plan
• Provide strategies for relearning skills (dressing, cooking, organizing, etc.)
• Recommend assistive devices if needed
• Offer guidance to caregivers and families
  
  

Call to schedule your initial evaluation today! 

Our expert team of therapists at Reddy Care Physical, Occupational & Aquatic therapy, located throughout Long Island, Queens, Brooklyn and Manhattan can help . 

Great Neck: 475 Northern Blvd., Ste.11, Great Neck, NY 11021  Tel. (516) 829.0030

Farmingdale: 309 North West Dr., Farmingdale, NY 11735   Tel. (516) 420.2900

Woodbury: 150 Woodbury Rd., Woodbury, NY 11797   Tel. (516) 367.1111

Deer Park: 2024 Deer Park Ave., Deer Park, NY 11729   Tel. (631) 243.0247

North Shore Towers: 272-78 Grand Central Pkwy., Floral Park, NY 11005  Tel. (516) 344.0030

Bayside - Aquatic Therapy: 208-32 Cross Island Pkwy., Bayside, NY11360  Tel. (718) 224.8480

Oceanside: 2421 S Long Beach Rd., Oceanside, NY 11572  Tel. (516) 992.2282

New York City: 250 West 93rd Street, New York, NY 10025 Tel. (212) 580.0125

Bay Shore: 1470 Sunrise Highway Bay Shore NY, 11706 Tel:(631)-446.1480

Amityville: 565 Albany Ave Amityville NY, 11701 Tel:(631)-532.0906

 In-Home Physical & Occupational Therapy (Home Care): Tel: (516) 829.0030 

*Home therapy servicing Long Island, Queens, Staten Island, Brooklyn, the Bronx & Manhattan*

Sources: Resource 1 Resource 2 

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Written by:

Dr. Vinod Somareddy, PT, DPT

President

Reddy Care Physical Therapy

Reddy Care Occupational Therapy

Reddy Care Aquatic Therapy

Author

Reddy Care Physical & Occupational Therapy Reddy Care Physical & Occupational Therapy is an outstanding specialty service providing exceptional care and state-of-the-art treatments for the residents of Farmingdale and Great Neck, New York. The combination of innovative exercise programs, manual therapy, and technology together with the expertise of every member of the team enables Reddy Care Physical & Occupational Therapy to provide services that ensure superior clinical outcomes and consistently high patient satisfaction.