The link between memory loss and brain trauma

As many New York County, New York, residents know all too well, the full effects of an injury like a concussion can take weeks to manifest. In fact, many traumatic brain injury symptoms are so subtle and/or delayed that they are never associated with the initial injury. That is why it is in the best interest of personal injury victims to seek professional legal counsel to ensure that the severity and nature of their injuries are fully accounted for. And given that a new medical study highlights the potential correlation between traumatic brain injuries and Alzheimer’s disease, victims are encouraged to learn their rights and legal options.

Subjects over the age of 69 were chosen to participate in a research study conducted by the Mayo Clinic where they were divided into two groups: 141 subjects were identified as experiencing minor cognitive issues and 448 subjects were reported to be in good cognitive health. At the time of participating in the study, all subjects were asked to note any incident of memory loss or unconsciousness they experienced in their lives as a result of sustaining a brain injury.

Researchers concluded that brain scans conducted on subjects with cognitive difficulties and past brain trauma showed an almost 20 percent higher rate of plaque deposits commonly associated with Alzheimer’s disease. Subjects that did not report experiencing any cognitive delays did not present any increased rate of plaque deposits. Subjects with no signs of cognitive decline also reported fewer incidents of brain injuries.

The possible link between the manifestation of conditions like Alzheimer’s disease later in life and an injury like a concussion is one that must be taken seriously, as countless personal injury victims sustain head injuries every year.

Source: Voice of America, “Head Trauma Linked to Alzheimer’s Disease Plaques,” Jessica Berman, Dec. 27, 2013