ABI - Description & Causes

Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) is an injury to the brain that has occurred after birth and is not hereditary, congenital or degenerative. 

The injury commonly results in a change in neuronal activity, which affects the physical integrity, the metabolic activity or the functional ability of affected brain cells.  The term does not refer to brain injuries that are induced by birth trauma.

Causes of ABI include: 

• tumors
• blood clots
• strokes
• seizures
• toxic exposure such as substance abuse
• ingestion of lead and inhalation of volatile substances
• infections (encephalitis, meningitis)
• metabolic disorders (insulin shock, diabetic coma, liver and kidney disease)
• neurotoxic poisoning (airway obstruction, strangulation, cardiopulmonary arrest, carbon monoxide poisoning, drowning)
• lack of oxygen to the brain

Learn more about the rehabilitation for ABI.

Brain Injury Symptoms

Cognitive and Language

Difficulty with attention and concentration
Difficulty with memory
Difficulty with confusion
Difficulty with problem solving
Difficulty with decision making and judgment
Difficulty with word finding
Decreased awareness of deficits
Difficulty understanding conversation

Physical Functions
Difficulty walking
Difficulty with coordination or balance
Difficulty with swallowing
Changes in vision
Changes in hearing
Headache and/or dizziness
Fatigue
Paralysis or weakness
Slurred speech

Psychosocial Behavior
Negative changes in social skills and/or relationships
Anger/stress management issues
Increased impulsivity
Decreased initiation
Change in sleeping patterns
Behavioral and mood changes
Restlessness and/or agitation
Anxiety and/or Depression