Long-Term Consequences of Concussions
Concussions are a common brain injury that can produce traumatic long-term effects. One of the most challenging factors of concussion is that symptoms may not surface until days after an incident, making it challenging to associate the symptoms with the initial incident causing the injury. Many individuals forego treatment because there may be no initial symptoms, but it is vital that any head injury is followed up by a doctor’s visit for assessment and documentation.
Caused by an impact or trauma to the head, concussions are traumatic brain injuries that can increase the risk of future brain disease and produce troubling symptoms and a change in mental state for months. Becoming familiar with the long-term consequences of concussions allows individuals and their families to be aware and take action immediately. Care can be ongoing and costly.
Persistent Post-Concussive Symptoms
When injuries are milder, the concussion symptoms typically subside over three months after the traumatic event, but persistent symptoms lasting longer can result in post-concussion syndrome enduring a year or longer, which can disturb daily life. The symptoms of post-concussion syndrome may include:
- Cognitive changes, such as forgetfulness and trouble concentrating
- Dizziness and loss of balance
- Headaches
- Behavioral and personality changes
- Change in sleep patterns
Advanced age and gender, females, can be a risk factor for developing this syndrome, but this syndrome can affect anyone suffering a head injury.
Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE)
Suffering multiple concussions can lead to this progressive brain disease, causing memory loss, degeneration of the brain, and long-term amnesia. These changes to the brain appear in two phases or forms, leading to mental health and behavioral issues during the late twenties to early thirties and then producing symptoms later in life, often progressing into dementia. Unfortunately, there is no cure.
Other symptoms of CTE can include:
- Loss of impulse control and outbursts
- Irritability
- Aggressive behaviors
- Depression and emotional instability
- Impaired motor skills
- Trouble with planning, organizing, and executing tasks
Individuals who develop CTE suffer an average of 17 concussions which is documented at a higher rate in individuals playing contact sports. Even jobs can expose people to this injury. It has been found in military troops serving in war zones.
Alzheimer’s Disease
Repeated head trauma and recurring concussions can result in the likelihood of developing this form of dementia. Alzheimer’s affects areas in the brain responsible for memory and language, making it difficult to perform routine daily activities. These changes begin years before symptoms start, and the number of people impacted by this disease doubles every five years after the age of 65.
Parkinson’s Disease
Suffering traumatic brain injuries such as concussions can cause an increase in developing nervous system impairment, identified as a movement disorder caused by the degeneration of nerve cells in the brain. Close to one million individuals in the U.S. are thought to suffer from this progressive disease that worsens gradually. While this disease primarily impacts movement, it can also affect the bowels and lead to depression and memory problems.
Once diagnosed, medication and surgical interventions can improve the quality of an individual’s life, but currently there is no cure.
Speak With a Syracuse Traumatic Brain Injury Attorney
Traumatic brain injuries such as concussions can develop into lifelong symptoms and diseases that may appear years or even decades after injury. Gattuso & Ciotoli, PLLC, understand that ongoing injury treatment can lead to overwhelming financial situations. Speak with a team member today and schedule a free consultation to learn how passionate we are about providing personalized service and ensuring compensation for concussion injuries.