Brain damage can be a potentially devastating medical issue, not just for the person who has suffered the damage, but for friends and family as well. Damage to the brain may develop as a result of medical issues such as a stroke or ruptured aneurysm, or more frequently it may be the result of a traumatic brain injury. Brain damage treatment begins with making sure the affected person is not in a medical crisis. Once the person's health is stable, brain damage treatment focuses on teaching him or her to function as normally as possible through efforts that may include physical therapy or helping the person regain at least some form of self-reliance.
Traumatic brain injury is the most common cause of brain damage. This type of brain damage occurs as a result of an injury such as a direct blow to the head, as in an automobile accident or physical abuse. Acquired brain damage develops from such things as seizure disorders, strokes, or ruptured aneurysms. Regardless of the direct cause of brain damage, treatment options remain the same. Unfortunately, brain cells are not able to regenerate once they have been damaged, so permanent brain damage often occurs.
The first step in brain damage treatment is to stabilize the patient. If there is any bleeding or swelling, surgery will likely be required in order to bring the person out of a medical crisis. Once the person has recovered from this ordeal, further brain damage treatment may begin. Fluids may be restricted for a while to prevent brain swelling and increased pressure on the skull. Medications may be prescribed to prevent seizures or to reduce the amounts of fluid in the body.
Brain damage treatment typically involves various types of supportive therapy. The patient will often be referred to physical and occupational therapists who will help him or her to relearn tasks such as walking, dressing, or going to the restroom without assistance. Memory exercises may be suggested if there are delays or problems with memory recall. Psychological therapy can be useful to help the person learn to deal with new limitations on an emotional level.
Brain damage treatment options also include a support system for the caregiver. In many cases, a person suffering from brain damage will have to have some degree of assistance, either permanently or until able to function independently again. Many support groups are available to help teach the new caregiver to provide a supportive environment for the brain damage victim.
