What Is the Typical Amount of Time It Takes to Heal?
If you’ve suffered a bump or blow to the head, whether in a car accident, slip and fall or while participating in recreational activities, you’re not alone. The Centers For Disease Control (CDC) estimates that more than 2.5 million Americans seek medical treatment for a TBI every year and that more than a third of those individuals end up with permanent disabilities. What is a reasonable recovery period after a traumatic brain injury? What factors affect your ability to recover?
The Severity of Your Injuries
The single biggest factor that determines both the likelihood and the timeliness of your recuperation from a TBI is the severity of your injury. About three of every four traumatic brain injuries are considered to be mild. The symptoms, which can be present for anywhere from a few days to a couple months, include memory loss, abnormal sensitivity to sound or light, changes in sleep patterns, mood swings or difficulty with concentration. There may even be a brief loss of consciousness. However, with a mild TBI, the majority of people make a full recovery within 6-8 weeks.
With a moderate traumatic brain injury, you still have a better than average chance of a full recovery (approximately 60%), but it will typically take a longer period of time to heal. You can expect to experience confusion or other mental challenges for a few days to a few weeks, but full recovery may take six to twelve months or even longer.
With a severe TBI, which commonly includes a significant period of loss of consciousness, you may be able to make a good recovery, but full recovery is rare. The National Institute of Health compiles data that indicates that anywhere from 20 to 40 percent of victims of severe TBI make a “good” recovery, but it typically takes months or years of hard work and rehab.
Contact Us to Set Up an Appointment
At Advantage Healthcare Systems, we have extensive experience working successfully with individuals who suffer any type of concussion, TBI or traumatic brain injury. Call us toll-free at 1-877-487-8289 or fill out the form provided below to schedule an assessment. We offer locations across Texas, including Fort Worth, Dallas and San Antonio.