The Importance of Seeking Treatment for Head Injuries

A new study by the Boston Center for the Study of Traumatic Encephalopathy (BCSTE) highlights a link between significant head injury and the development, even years later, of degenerative brain disease.

Encephalopathy is a degenerative brain disease that can lead to serious symptoms, including depression, dementia and memory loss. The study analyzed the brain health of eighty-five individuals, many of whom had engaged in professional sports. The study found a high incidence of traumatic encephalopathy among those who had suffered significant head injuries in the past.

Two lines of defense protect the fragile tissue of the brain from being damaged. The skull creates a hard layer of protection that is further supported by a layer of cerebrospinal fluid between the skull and the brain. Nevertheless, brain injuries do happen, so it is important to know the warning signs, and to seek immediate medical attention.

Professional sports players are not the only population at risk for serious head injuries. Car and bike accidents, in addition to popular amateur sports like football, wrestling or boxing can all result in an injury to the head. The most common type of head injury is a concussion, which involves bruising of the brain by the inside of the skull. Symptoms of a concussion can include the following:

• Loss of consciousness
• Blurred vision
• Difficulty remembering or thinking
• Nausea and vomiting
• Dizziness and loss of balance
• Lack of energy, unusual changes in mood and sleep patterns

The recent study from the BCSTE underscores the importance of getting medical attention for a blow to the head, as untreated head injuries may have long-term effects in addition to their immediate dangers.

If you have suffered a head injury in an accident, contact us for an evaluation of your rights.