The Long-Term Effects of Multiple Concussions
Although most concussions and other mild traumatic brain injuries completely resolve themselves relatively quickly, the effects of multiple concussions can be significant and can lead to long-term cognitive and physical deficiencies. The long-term effects of concussions – like brain injuries of all kinds – do not always follow a predictable course. Nonetheless, multiple concussions have long been thought to contribute to future dementia-like symptoms, known as chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), which results in brain damage that affects memory and executive functioning.
The long-term effects of multiple concussions can range from the undetectable to the extreme. Concussions are widely considered to go profoundly underreported1 and because concussions can be relatively symptom-free in many situations and because recovery is difficult to measure and verify, it is exceedingly complex to pinpoint the long-term effects of multiple concussions.
The consequences of concussions can be very vague, including generalized symptoms that are not always obviously related to the concussion. These symptoms, which can include difficulties such as mild irritability or sleep issues, are often left unexamined but can lead to more serious problems over time.
Complications of Concussions
The Mayo Clinic recognizes several potential concussion complications,2 which include the following:
- Cumulative effects of multiple concussions;
- Postconcussion syndrome – experiencing symptoms like headaches, dizziness, and confusion for up to several months after a concussion;
- Post-traumatic headaches;
- Post-traumatic vertigo; and
- Second impact syndrome – becoming concussed before a former concussion has resolved itself that can cause fatal brain swelling.
These all represent serious issues that should not be ignored. Further, the evidence suggests that those who have experienced multiple concussions over their lifetimes may develop lasting and possibly even progressive debilitating impairments. If you have suffered a concussion or think you might have, it is crucial that you seek prompt medical attention. It is also extremely important that you not return to any activities that are prone to cause concussions – like contact sports – before fully recovering from all signs and symptoms of a previous concussion. To do so could be life-threatening.
If you suffer from the long-term effects of multiple concussions that were incurred during sports, on the job, or through someone else’s negligence, seek the expert advice of an experienced and skilled personal injury attorney who will guide you on the path to financial recovery and advise you of your legal rights.
Contact an Experienced Traumatic Brain Injury Attorney in the Tampa Bay Area
If you or someone you care about is suffering from the long-term effects of multiple concussions in or around Tampa Bay, Florida, do not hesitate to call the Dolman Law Group to discuss your situation and a potential legal claim. Our Tampa brain injury lawyers have extensive experience helping victims with this type of injury move forward after an accident in the best financial position possible. For more information and a free consultation, please call us today at 727-451-6900 or contact us online.
Dolman Law Group
800 North Belcher Road
Clearwater, FL 33765