Acquired brain injury (ABI) is an injury to the brain that happens after birth.
Both meningitis and septicaemia can cause ABI. The brain takes over 20 years to fully develop, so if a child or young person has meningitis, this development may be affected. The changes may not be apparent immediately after illness; it may take months or years for changes to be noticed. Meningitis in adults can also cause ABI, but as the brain is fully developed the impact of any ABI is usually apparent soon after illness.
ABI after meningitis can cause physical, sensory, cognitive, emotional, behavioural and communication difficulties.
We can help
Acquired brain injury can have a significant impact on the individual affected, and their family and friends. For support and information, please contact our helpline.