Long-Term Effects of Traumatic Brain Injury: A Personal Journey

Introduction

Living 12-15 years post-traumatic brain injury (TBI) can bring a multitude of long-term effects, from physical to psychological, all of which can deeply impact one's daily life and overall well-being. herein, I will share my story as one who has faced such challenges, along with insights into how TBI can affect various aspects of a person's life.

The Signs and Symptoms of Long-Term TBI

For me, a series of progressively debilitating symptoms began to manifest after a TBI. Initially, the impairment was subtle, but over the years, it became increasingly difficult to cope with daily life. The effects I experienced included extreme fatigue, short-term memory loss, and a continuous ringing in my ears, which made even simple tasks like writing and math challenging. Other symptoms such as tremors, muscle loss, and polyneuropathy also emerged, leading to significant physical decline.

Living with Chronic Pain and Disability

Losing the ability to walk and engage in any job has profoundly changed my life. I moved countries multiple times to seek relief from my condition, eventually settling in Colombia. Despite regular visits to my neurologist, the medical help received has been limited and insufficient. The journey has been arduous, but it has pushed me to connect closer to God and find gratitude for the abilities I still have, such as the ability to walk, see, and think.

Impact on My Personal and Professional Life

My cognitive impairments have affected my professional life, making it difficult to progress in any career. I have become more aware of environmental and social issues, which contrasts with the often-violent and irresponsible behavior of others. This has led to a reevaluation of my beliefs and core values. While missing the ability to walk, I remain hopeful and determined to regain it.

Widespread Effects of TBI

The effects of TBI can vary widely and span across multiple domains. Common long-term effects include:

Cognitive Impairments

Problems with memory, learning, reasoning, judgment, and attention. These deficits can lead to difficulties in performing daily tasks and managing time effectively.

Personality Changes

Sometimes TBI can cause personality changes, making the injured person seem "different" with altered emotional responses or mood swings. These changes can often go unnoticed by others, leading to feelings of isolation.

Seizures and Sensory Issues

Seizures can occur both early and late after TBI and may progress to epilepsy. Sensory issues like visual difficulty, balance problems, hand-eye coordination, and persistent ringing in the ears can also persist.

Progressive Dementias

Research suggests that repeated or severe TBIs might increase the risk of degenerative brain diseases, but this risk is unpredictable and more studies are needed.

Conclusion

The long-term effects of TBI can be profound and multifaceted, impacting both physical and mental health. While the journey is challenging, individuals like myself find ways to adapt, reevaluate their beliefs, and seek support. By understanding these effects, we can better support those affected by TBI and advocate for improved medical care and resources.