Brain injuries can affect much more than memory or movement. In many cases, damage to the brain also disrupts one or more of the five senses. These changes can be mild or severe and may affect daily life unexpectedly.
Sensory problems may not always appear right away. Some people notice them hours or even days after the injury. That delay can make it harder to connect the symptoms to the trauma.
Below are some key points to remember.
Changes to vision, hearing and touch
Vision is one of the most commonly affected senses. A person may experience blurred vision, light sensitivity or difficulty focusing. In more serious cases, parts of the visual field may be lost.
Hearing may also be affected. Some people report a ringing sound in the ears, known as tinnitus, while others notice reduced hearing or complete hearing loss on one side. Touch can also change. People may feel numbness, tingling or increased sensitivity to temperature or pain.
Loss of taste and smell
Taste and smell often go hand in hand, and both can be impacted by brain trauma. Some people lose these senses completely, while others find they are dulled or altered. Foods may taste different, or familiar scents may disappear. These changes can affect appetite, enjoyment of food and even safety, such as being unable to detect smoke.
Even minor sensory changes can interfere with work, hobbies and daily routines. Vision or hearing issues may make it harder to read, drive or follow conversations. A lack of smell or taste can lead to nutritional problems or missed hazards. Each case is different, but the effects are often long-lasting.
If you have been injured in an accident that wasn’t your fault, you may be entitled to personal injury compensation. This can cover your expenses and help you focus on recovery.
