Life After Brain Injury
Just as no two brains are alike, no two brain injuries are the same, either. As a result, each person living with a brain injury is affected in a different way.
North Dakota Brain Injury Network (NDBIN) has adopted a screening protocol and symptom inventory with the help of Mindsource Brain Injury Network. Survivors can contact NDBIN to get their personal symptom inventory set up with our staff.
Following completion of a symptom inventory, survivors are provided with tip sheets that match the brain injury symptoms they are experiencing.
Persisting Signs and Symptoms
Following a brain injury or concussion, symptoms can affect the body, thinking, mood, and sleep.
The symptoms after a head injury or concussion can be different from person to person. Some symptoms appear right away. Others may show up later or become more noticeable when you return to normal activities.
Physical symptoms
- Headaches
- Dizziness or balance problems
- Feeling tired or having no energy
- Sensitivity to light or noise
- Nausea or vomiting, especially early after injury
- Vision problems
Cognitive (thinking) symptoms
- Trouble focusing or paying attention
- Feeling slowed down, foggy, or groggy
- Trouble remembering things
- Trouble thinking clearly
Mood/behavior changes
- Feeling more emotional than usual
- Irritability or anger
- Anxiety or nervousness
- Sadness or depression-like feelings
- Personality or behavior changes noticed by family, friends, teachers, coaches, or coworkers
Sleep changes
- Trouble falling asleep
- Sleeping more than usual
- Sleeping less than usual
- Feeling tired even after sleep
Daily life changes
- Trouble keeping up at work or school
- Difficulty returning to sports or physical activity
- Trouble driving, reading, using screens, or being in noisy environments
- Strain in relationships because of mood, energy, memory, or behavior changes
Not every symptom means something dangerous is happening. But symptoms that last, worsen, or interfere with daily life are worth discussing with a healthcare provider. If you are looking for more guidance and support, NDBIN is here to help.