Yes, a head injury can increase the chance of developing schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. In some cases, injury to your brain’s frontal lobe area can lead to temporary psychosis symptoms.
A head injury leading to schizophrenia or bipolar disorder may be more likely to occur in:
- people with a severe head injury
- those with a family history of schizophrenia
- older adults
- women than men
Any significant brain injury can lead to schizophrenia symptoms, such as delusions and hallucinations.
It can also increase the chance of developing a reduced ability to think, such as a lower attention span and difficulty remembering things. Psychiatric conditions may occur as well, such as:
- depression
- anxiety
- insomnia
- bipolar disorder
If you have any of the following symptoms after a head injury or concussion, contact healthcare support or have someone do it for you.
- vomiting
- behavior changes, such as irritability
- a headache that doesn’t go away after taking pain relief medications
- difficulty remembering things
Get medical help right away or ask somebody to get it if you pass out and then wake up.
If you get a head injury, call a doctor or ask someone to call for you. A doctor can monitor your symptoms and provide needed treatment.
Delaying medical support after a head injury can increase your risk of complications, such as a stroke or coma.
You can take care of yourself after a head injury in several ways, such as:
- placing an ice pack on the area regularly and for short periods
- getting enough rest
- taking pain relief medications, such as ibuprofen (Advil), if any pain arises
Learn more about a head injury.