If you’re one of the millions of Americans who watch the NFL, you’ve undoubtedly heard of players suffering traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). The consequences can range from light concussions to death, depending on how badly—or how frequently—the brain is injured.
When the brain suffers frequent injuries, there may be long-lasting negative effects. One troubling condition is called CTE.
Chronic traumatic encephalopathy and frequent head injuries
As TBI research and medical developments improve, doctors are learning more about chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE). This condition is common among contact sports players, especially American football and boxing. The more head injuries a player sustains, the more likely they are to develop CTE.
According to the American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, “CTE results in a progressive decline of memory and cognition, as well as depression, suicidal behavior, poor impulse control, aggressiveness, parkinsonism, and, eventually, dementia.”
CTE has been found in many deceased former football players. “A study published in the Journal of American Medical Association (JAMA) in July 2017 found that among 202 deceased former football players, 177 of them were diagnosed with CTE. There were 111 former NFL players in the study, and 110 of them were diagnosed with CTE.” When former NFL player Aaron Hernandez died in prison at age 27, doctors found that he had the worst case of CTE that they had ever seen. He was in prison for murder, and committed suicide—both actions attributable to CTE.
CTE is difficult to diagnose among the living. There has only been one documented CTE diagnosis on a living person. Currently, there is no cure.
While the vast majority of the population will never play in the NFL, understanding the effects of frequent brain injuries is important. Not only is our collective knowledge improved, but when a person suffers multiple head injuries, they’re more likely to develop CTE later in life.
When you or a loved one has been injured due to someone else’s negligence or recklessness, you can file suit to recover damages. If you believe that the injuries could contribute to a potential CTE diagnosis, tell the Law Offices of Tim Misny. You may be entitled to higher compensation than someone who suffered a single head injury. Our team will help you determine which damages you may be eligible to receive, and your chances of financial recovery.
Talk to an experienced Ohio personal injury lawyer today
The more traumatic brain injuries you experience, the more likely you are to suffer serious, lifetime consequences. Have you suffered a TBI as a result of someone else’s negligence? If you have a case, I’ll Make Them Pay!® Call me at 877.483.2298 to discuss your options.
