Dangers of So-Called “Mild” TBIs
A new study from the Medical College of Wisconsin is offering new insights into what goes on in the brain in the first few hours after a concussion. The initial results confirm what other studies have long suggested—that the effects of a concussion often indicate that a serious brain injury has occurred.
Sports Injuries Causing Brain Damage
The new study focused on high school-aged patients who had suffered their concussions while playing football.
Brain damage is commonly thought to only occur in catastrophic events such as car collisions and truck accidents. However, multiple studies have discovered that it takes very little physical trauma to cause serious and irreparable harm to the body’s most vital organ. Increasingly common causes of brain injuries are concussions sustained in full-contact sports like football.
Football concussions are a serious problem at both the professional and amateur levels. However, some research indicates that the harmful effects may be much more serious for teenage players. A University of New Mexico study found that a concussion alters the brain’s white matter, which in turn affects cognition and learning capabilities. In an adolescent brain, these cognition problems were still present three months after the concussion, even when the victim reported no pain or symptoms.
These results were confirmed by research from the Langone School of Medicine at New York University. One professor noted that the brain suffers “true structural damage” after even a mild concussion. The NYU study included victims who had suffered mild brain injuries but subsequently endured brain shrinkage and post-traumatic emotional trauma.
Often Overlooked Signs of Brain Injury
A concussion is not simply something that an athlete should “walk off,” any more than they should attempt to walk off a broken leg or torn ACL. Even if they report feeling fine, it is essential to watch for the symptoms of brain injury. They include:
- Concentration problems
- Constant headaches
- Light or sound sensitivity
- Loss of balance
- Personality changes
- Excessive sleep
- Confusion or disorientation
Seek medical attention immediately if your child or family member displays any of these symptoms.
We Represent Victims Harmed by Others’ Negligence
Anyone who suffered a concussion due to another’s negligence deserves to speak with an experienced Indianapolis injury lawyer. The medical expenses of treating the concussion may be more than you expect, and having proper legal counsel can help you make the best decisions for yourself and your family. Contact our office today by calling (317) 844-9999.