As many as 10,000 people a year may suffer an acquired brain injury in Ireland and face a dramatically altered life thereafter. It can occur as a result of trauma (e.g. a traffic accident, a fall or an assault), a stroke, a brain haemorrhage or brain surgery, a viral infection occurring in the brain or a lack of oxygen to the brain.

Acquired brain injury can be characterised by physical and sensory difficulties (fatigue, headaches, pain, balance and coordination, seizures, swallowing and speech difficulties), difficulties with thinking (memory, attention and concentration, decision-making), and emotional and behavioural difficulties (anger and irritability, lack of insight, depression, anxiety, loss of confidence, inappropriate behaviour).

Progress after an acquired brain injury is unpredictable, and no two cases will be alike. People will access services at different points in time as their needs change. The multi-disciplinary approach to care and rehabilitation of ABI sufferers dictates a range of different service providers who work together in the best interest of the patient.

Back to: ABI Care