Accelerated Dementia May Occur After a Brain Injury

In a recent issue of Biological Psychiatry, a study was published linking the risk of increased dementia among patients who suffer from traumatic brain injuries (TBI) and brain injury infections.

Scientists had already been aware of systemic inflammation, in which the body becomes inflamed as a whole, to have an affect on brain function, according the study; unfortunately, little to no research had been conducted on the diseases and potential link to TBI.

The study, conducted by members from the Trinity College Dublin and University of Southampton, studied the "inflammatory response" to infection and injury of mice with previous neurodegenerative disease (brain damage caused by loss of cells and neurons). According to the study, "the response caused exaggerated symptoms of the infection, causes changes in memory and learning and leads to accelerated progression of dementia." Patients suffering from TBI should contact their medical physician to better understand the potential risk for developing dementia.

Dealing With Dementia

The National Library of Medicine (NLM) defines dementia as a "loss of brain function," however, the condition is not considered a single disease, but is described as a "group of illnesses that involve memory, behavior, learning and communications problems.NLM describes a list of symptoms that can affect dementia patients. Dementia is characterized by signs and symptoms such as the following:

* lack of concentration

* increased/progressive memory loss

* hallucinations/delusion

* confusion

* decrease in problem-solving and judgement

* impaired recognition

* disorientation

* motor system impairment

* memory deficit

* absent or impaired language ability

* lack of spontaneity

* irritability, poor temper control

* anxiety

* depression

* inability to read, write, speak, form words and name objects

* no observable mood

* inability to maintain employment or interact in social or personal situations

Unfortunately, treatments for dementia are slim and may only include treating symptoms with dietary supplements and prescription medicines. Additionally, individuals with dementia will likely need long-term care such as 24-hour monitoring and in-home care to control aggression and to monitor their potential for personal injury, according to a February 2008 article from The New York Times on the details of dementia.

Overcoming TBI Risks

Individuals have suffered from a traumatic brain injury or a brain infection and thus have increased the inflammation within the brain should consider speaking with a specialized medical professional or neurologist about the potential for developing accelerated dementia.

It is also advisable for a brain injury victim to contact an experienced brain injury attorney as it may become necessary to develop a lawsuit. To receive a free legal consultation, locate a brain injury law firm and learn about the details of developing a case that may earn a victim monetary compensation to pay for medical brain injury treatments.