What Is CTE?

Permanent, debilitating brain injuries are not always the result of one massive physical impact. In some cases, the harm from numerous minor injuries over time can also cause permanent, irreparable damage. Doctors and researchers believe that these repeated minor injuries can lead to chronic traumatic encephalopathy.

Chronic traumatic encephalopathy is known by a few other names: CTE, punch drunk syndrome, and dementia pugilistica. No matter the name used, it is a chronic and degenerative condition that can have a profound impact on a person and their loved ones.

Explaining Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy

Millions of Americans suffer a traumatic brain injury (TBI) every year. A TBI can occur when the brain is damaged due to a blow to the head. Sports injuries, auto accidents, and falls are some of the most common causes of these blows.

Depending on the force of the impact, the brain can suffer an indirect secondary injury sometime after the primary injury. However, the majority of blunt-force brain injuries are mild. Symptoms can include dizziness, momentary unconsciousness, nausea, and short-term memory loss.

These symptoms typically resolve with time and do not cause any lasting effects. Treatment may consist of rest and over-the-counter medication to manage pain and discomfort.

While one mild TBI may not cause severe or lasting harm, researchers believe that the harm from multiple minor concussions can aggregate. This risk grows if the damage from one TBI does not fully heal before a successive TBI occurs. Someone who suffers several concussions over a short time may later develop chronic traumatic encephalopathy.

History of CTE

Although repetitive head injuries were known to adversely affect individuals as early as the 19th century, it was not until 1928 that CTE was first recognized. Dr. Harrison Martland described the condition as “punch drunk syndrome” after observing the behaviors of a group of boxers.

Approximately 75 years later, in 2005, doctors observed the first physical evidence of CTE in the brain of former football player Mike Webster.

Who Is At Risk of Suffering From CTE?

Medical professionals still do not fully understand CTE. However, research shows that those who suffer repeated blows to the head are at a greater risk of developing the condition.

At-risk individuals include:

• Athletes who play contact sports like football, hockey, and soccer
• Military service members who are exposed to explosions
• Domestic violence victims and others who are repeatedly assaulted
• Employees who are subjected to repeated blows to the head at work

The risk of developing CTE also increases when a person suffers multiple TBIs close to one another. Due to the quick succession of impacts, the brain does not have time to heal correctly between blows, and trauma accumulates.

Common Symptoms of CTE

Those who develop CTE may not experience the same symptoms, and timelines for developing the condition will vary. Some may notice symptoms soon after a blow to the head. For others, symptoms can appear long after they last suffered head trauma.

These initial CTE symptoms can include the following:

• Memory loss
• Trouble concentrating
• Headaches
• Irritability
• Slurred speech

Other, more severe symptoms are also associated with CTE. These include behavioral changes, aggression, depression, and more significant memory difficulties.

CTE can eventually lead to dementia. Studies suggest a person who experiences brain trauma in their early life has a greater risk of developing dementia later in life.

Diagnosis and Treatment of CTE

There is no approved test or screening tool to diagnose CTE while someone is alive. An official diagnosis can only be made by examining the person’s brain following their death. Still, medical experts disagree over the precise criteria and markers that should be used to make a diagnosis.

Chronic traumatic encephalopathy has no cure or established course of treatment. Instead, doctors may monitor someone who is at high risk of CTE and treat their symptoms if they show signs of brain injury. Therapy can assist those who are having trouble recalling things, and medications can help address depression and other behavioral issues.

CTE Prevention Strategies

The only effective way to prevent chronic traumatic encephalopathy is to avoid sustaining repeated blows to your head. Whether you play sports or are in a work environment where you can sustain repeated head trauma, the following tips can help reduce your risk.

Wear Appropriate Protective Gear

Always wear a properly fitted helmet when you are at risk of suffering a blow to the head. If you notice that your protective gear appears damaged, do not continue using it. Seek a suitable replacement immediately. Do not continue engaging in the sport or work until you obtain your new helmet.

Seek Medical Evaluation Following Head Trauma

Should you sustain a blow to the head, consider visiting your doctor or local hospital for an evaluation. This becomes even more important if you notice signs of a mild TBI like dizziness, unconsciousness, nausea, or vomiting. A doctor can assess the extent of any head trauma and determine whether you need medical intervention.

Follow Your Doctor’s Orders

Abide by any restrictions your doctor gives you, and keep any appointments your doctor recommends. During follow-up visits, your doctor can make sure that any trauma you suffered is healing appropriately. Avoid returning to work or sports too quickly. This increases your risk of suffering another head injury soon after the first, which is believed to lead to CTE.

Be Alert for Early CTE Symptoms

If you sustained repeated head injuries in the past, learn about the symptoms of CTE and inform your family. While there is no medication or procedure to reverse the condition, you can seek medical treatment to manage the symptoms. Getting the assistance you need can improve your quality of life.

The Danger of Repeated Head Trauma

Significant head trauma presents apparent dangers, but parents and adults alike should be on the alert for minor but repeated brain injuries. While these incidents may not immediately result in lasting symptoms, the trauma can accumulate and lead to CTE later in life.

There is no cure for CTE, but its impact on your quality of life and that of your family cannot be denied.

Contact Our Personal Injury Law Firm in Baton Rouge, LA

If you’ve been injured in an accident inBaton Rouge, Louisiana, and need legal help,contactour Baton Rouge personal injury lawyers atPalmintier, Thrower, and Treuting Injury Attorneys to schedule a free consultation today.

Palmintier, Thrower, and Treuting Injury Attorneys
618 Main St, Baton Rouge, LA 70801, United States
225-401-6962