Effects of brain injury
Even after a minor head injury, brain function can be temporarily impaired and this is sometimes referred to as concussion. This can lead to difficulties such as headaches, dizziness, fatigue, depression, irritability and memory problems.
While most people are symptom-free within two weeks, some can experience problems for months or even years after a minor head injury.
The more severe the brain injury, the more pronounced the long-term effects are likely to be. Survivors of more severe brain injury are likely to have complex long-term problems affecting their personality, their relationships and their ability to lead an independent life.
Even with good rehabilitation, support and help in the community, survivors and their families are likely to face uncertain and challenging futures.
Browse this section to find out more about the effects of brain injury. You can also download our Effects of brain injury and how to help (PDF) booklet in the related resources section.
Behavioural effects
Behavioural changes after brain injury are many and varied. Get more information on these common effects of brain injury.
Find out moreCognitive effects
The cognitive effects of a brain injury include issues with speed of thought, memory, understanding, concentration, solving problems, using language and more.
Find out moreComa and reduced awareness states
Information about coma, as well as other reduced awareness states such as minimally conscious state, vegetative state and locked-in syndrome.
Find out moreCommunication problems
Communication problems after brain injury are very common. This section goes into detail about some of the communication issues that may arise after brain injury.
Find out moreExecutive dysfunction
Executive dysfunction is a term for the range of cognitive, emotional and behavioural difficulties which often occur after injury to the frontal lobes of the brain.
Find out moreEmotional effects
Everyone who has had a brain injury can be left with some changes in emotional reaction. These can be some of the most difficult for the individual concerned and their family to deal with.
Find out moreFatigue
For many people after brain injury, fatigue may feel like overwhelming tiredness, which makes them unable to complete normal activities of daily living.
Find out moreHormonal imbalances
Brain injury may occasionally cause damage to the hypothalamus and/or pituitary gland, which can lead to a range of symptoms caused by hormonal imbalances.
Find out morePhysical effects
Most people make an excellent physical recovery after a brain injury, but ongoing physical problems can have a real impact on daily life.
Find out morePost-traumatic amnesia
Post-traumatic amnesia (PTA) is the time after a period of unconsciousness when the injured person is conscious and awake, but is behaving or talking in a bizarre or uncharacteristic manner.
Find out moreRelationships after brain injury
Find out moreSex and sexuality
Find out moreSupporting you
From local groups or branches, our Emergency Fund, Brain Injury Identity Card, helpline and much more, find out how Headway can support you after brain injury.
Find out moreIn your area
Find brain injury support in your area by searching our directory of local Headway groups and branches, specialist solicitors, approved care providers and charity shops.
Find out more