Teens Most Vulnerable to Concussion, Study Finds
A recent study found that teenagers are more likely than other age groups to encounter cognitive problems after head injuries.
December 06, 2012
Teens Most Vulnerable to Concussion, Study FindsPeople of all ages can suffer lasting consequences after concussions, but a recent study found that teenagers are more likely than other age groups to experience cognitive problems after head injuries.
In a study that tested the thinking ability of 96 people an average of six months after sustaining a concussion, researchers at the University of Montreal found that teenagers suffered more cognitive impairment after concussions than both children and adults, who displayed similar deficits. The results were surprising in light of widely held beliefs that children are more resilient after brain injuries than other age groups.
All three age groups involved in the study showed problems with working memory after suffering head injuries, National Public Radio reported. Working memory, which is used for things like reading and problem solving, takes place in a part of the brain called the prefrontal cortex, which matures during the teenage years. Researchers believe the development taking place in the prefrontal cortex during adolescence may make that portion of the brain more vulnerable to injury.
Concussion Warning Signs
Concussions and other traumatic brain injuries can occur when a blow to the head causes the brain to strike the inside of the skull, potentially causing very serious damage -- even when the impact itself may seem relatively minor. To help reduce the risk of serious permanent brain damage after a head injury, it is important to recognize the signs of concussion. Seek medical help right away if any of the following symptoms develop after a head injury:
-Confusion or memory loss
-Dizziness or nausea
-Severe headache
-Weakness, numbness or tingling on one side of the body
-Unusual tiredness or sluggishness
In addition to preventing serious permanent damage, seeking immediate medical help in the event of a potential concussion can also affect your ability to recover compensation for your injuries if you decide to pursue a personal injury claim. A medical evaluation can provide valuable evidence about the seriousness of the injury, the degree of impairment, and the extent to which continuing medical and rehabilitative care may be necessary.
For more information about pursing a personal injury claim for a traumatic brain injury that may have been caused by someone else's negligence, contact an experienced personal injury lawyer in your area.
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