While the brain does not generate new neurons after an injury, it can compensate for that loss by changing the way information flows throughout the brain. This is where neuroplasticity steps in. Through neuroplasticity, the brain can form new neural pathways, and therefore repair some of the damage it sustained.

How the brain recovers from trauma?

As swelling decreases and blood flow and brain chemistry improve, brain function usually improves. With time, the persons eyes may open, sleep-wake cycles may begin, and the injured person may follow commands, respond to family members, and speak.

How long does it take for brain trauma to heal?

The vast majority of recovery after traumatic brain injury takes place in the two years after injury; after this the brain injured patient faces an uncertain future. In some patients further improvement is seen even as late as 5-10 years after injury.

Is trauma to the brain permanent?

The effects of moderate to severe TBI can be long lasting or even permanent. While recovery and rehabilitation are possible, most people with moderate to severe TBI face life challenges that will require them to adapt and adjust to a new reality.

Can the brain recover from damage?

Unlike most other cells in the body, brain cells do not regenerate when they are destroyed. However, this does not mean that no recovery can occur. The brain is somewhat flexible and is able to reorganize itself, to an extent, in order to regain lost function. This is known as brain plasticity.

Do you ever fully recover from a traumatic brain injury?

Therefore, a full and functional TBI recovery is almost always possible, even though it might take several years of dedication. But in order to make this type of progress, you must take initiative. In fact, without consistent work, brain injury recovery can stall and even regress.

What is considered a severe brain injury?

Severe brain injury is usually defined as being a condition where the patient has been in an unconscious state for 6 hours or more, or a post-traumatic amnesia of 24 hours or more. These patients are likely to be hospitalised and receive rehabilitation once the acute phase has passed.

What is the life expectancy after a stroke?

The study found that around 37% of the patients demised within three weeks of suffering a stroke. 64% patients had died by the end of the third year, 72% had died by the end of the fifth year, and 77% of patients were dead by the end of the seventh year. This is grim outlook!