What is Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy or CTE
Written by Cooper & Friedman PLLC on June 1, 2016
As personal injury attorneys serving the Louisville, Kentucky-area since 1991, we’ve seen a lot of serious and even life-threatening injuries over the years. And this includes head injuries like Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy or CTE.
Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy is a fast-moving, degenerative disease that occurs in individuals that have sustained a serious head injury. This disease used to be called dementia pugilistica or “punch-drunk,” because it was often found within professional boxers. Now CTE can be found in professional athletes that compete in sports like football, ice hockey, wrestling and rugby. These sports are associated with this disease because of the amount of physical contact involved. The high level of competition and regularity and aggressiveness of play increases the likelihood that professional athletes will experience CTE.
CTE is characterized by symptoms similar to dementia and this includes: memory loss, aggression, confusion, depression and loss of motivation. Many of those that suffer from CTE have had repeated head injuries, but for some, it only takes one blow to the head to cause this disease. This is a serious injury that is getting increased press coverage because of various research studies and the severity of their findings.
Understanding the Risk of Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy or CTE
In September 2015, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and Boston University found that 87 out of 91 deceased NFL players were suffering from CTE. This means that 96 percent of these deceased individuals had been plagued with this serious type of head injury, but it had never been diagnosed. A group of current NFL players were studied and researchers found that 79 percent of that population is living with this disease.
Understandably, these findings have sparked serious concern for many. A number of solutions are being considered including the idea of increasing the amount of protective equipment worn by professional athletes. Yet some critics argue that “less is more” by stating that the NFL should get rid of helmets all together. Some believe athletes would learn a new less harmful way to tackle in order to avoid serious head injuries.
Questions and answers surrounding CTE are still up for debate, but everyone agrees that there is a growing need for CTE awareness. For athletes or those who have undergone serious head trauma including accident victims, there is some important information you should know regarding this disease. As mentioned previously, CTE symptoms are often compared to dementia. However there are also other symptoms characterized by CTE which includes: disorientation, headaches, erratic behavior and difficulty speaking.
Seeking Medical and Legal Help for Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy from a Brain Injury Lawyer
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms following severe head trauma, you should always consult a physician. Seek medical attention immediately so you can get treatment and more information about CTE. There is a growing need for awareness and treatment for this disease. Additionally, before you or your children get involved in contact sports, educate yourself about the possible health issues and precautions you can take in order to avoid serious injuries like CTE.
And if you are an accident victim experiencing CTE, your case may qualify for certain damages including payment for medical bills, lost wages and pain and suffering. An experienced injury attorney can review your case and provide additional information and direction.
Cooper and Friedman injury attorneys in Louisville, Kentucky, have successfully collected millions of dollars for accident victims across Kentucky and Southern Indiana.
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