NIH says traumatic brain injuries a "major public health problem"

February 21, 2013 (Press-News.org) NIH says traumatic brain injuries a "major public health problem"

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According to the National Institute of Health (NIH), traumatic brain injuries are a major public health concern. Unlike many health problems, traumatic brain injuries, or TBIs, most commonly impact young and otherwise healthy adults.

These injuries are gaining attention in the media, particularly those occurring within the National Football League. One example from the NFL is the story of Junior Seau, a star linebacker with the San Diego Chargers. Seau committed suicide in May of 2012. The player's family claims Seau's death was connected to brain disease caused by repeated collisions during his time as a professional football player. As a result, the family is suing both the NFL and the manufacturer of the helmets worn by Seau. The family claims the NFL and helmet manufacturer did not properly protect the player from traumatic brain injuries and instead led Seau to believe he was safe.

Unfortunately, professional football players are not the only ones at risk for TBIs. In addition to sporting injuries, a TBI can result from car crashes, falls and acts of violence. According to the National Institute of Health, those at highest risk for these injuries are males ages 15 to 24.

The basics of traumatic brain injuries

Experts have yet to discover the full extent of damage that can result from traumatic brain injuries. The amount of damage done by the injury depends on a variety of factors, according to experts with Mayo Clinic. These factors include:
-Location of impact
-Severity of impact
-Whether bleeding, swelling or blood clots around the brain were involved

A TBI occurs when a sudden trauma results in damage to the brain. Symptoms of the injury can be present immediately following the trauma or weeks later. Immediate signs of a TBI include a loss of consciousness, a "dazed" feeling, headache, confusion, dizziness, blurred vision and ringing in the ears.

Symptoms that may appear at a later time include a change in sleep patterns, behavioral or mood changes, fatigue and forgetfulness. TBIs may also increase the risk of degenerative brain diseases like Alzheimer's, Parkinson's and dementia.

Victims of TBIs may require medical care long after receiving a TBI. Those who receive a TBI from a car accident or other act of negligence may be able to receive compensation to help cover the various costs associated with a TBI, potentially including medical treatment and lost wages. As a result, it is important to seek the counsel of an experienced traumatic brain injury attorney to discuss your situation and better ensure your legal rights and remedies are protected.