Nevada drivers making claims for damages after an automobile accident should be fully aware of their injuries and the long-term health and welfare consequences. New research shows that even supposedly minor bumps on the head can greatly increase the risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s. Before signing settlement documents, claimants should understand the risks and factor them in accordingly.
The study links traumatic brain injuries, or TBIs, to increased risks for dementia later in life. Concussions are a type of TBI commonly sustained from bumps to the head or jolting of the brain inside the cranium, which is the brain’s bony housing in a human skull. In even minor collisions, the brain often crashes against the cranium when there is a rapid acceleration and deceleration such as in a whiplash injury. A mild TBI typically has symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, blurred vision or memory loss. It is important to note that all symptoms are not necessary for a TBI to have occurred; medical treatment should be sought if any of the symptoms exist or if there is a visible bump or a penetrating injury has been sustained.
If a person suffers even a single mild TBI, the risks of developing dementia increase by 17 percent. If two instances of TBI occur, the risk increases to 33 percent. If a person sustains four TBIs, the risk of dementia is increased by 61 percent. Five or more TBIs bring an increased risk of 183 percent. A single TBI classified as severe brings an increased risk of 35 percent. Each of these percentage increases is in addition to whatever risk an individual already carries due to genetic predispositions. When in life a TBI occurs is also a factor. For example, a TBI sustained in a person’s 20s brings an increased risk of up to 60 percent for dementia in his or her 50s.
Properly documenting injury claims is essential for full and fair compensation. A qualified accident attorney may ensure that brain injury victims are represented in any accident or negligence claim.
Source: Mayo Clinic, “Concussion: Symptoms and Causes.” Accessed 4/18/2018.
