Loss of consciousness and traumatic brain injury affects memory
The findings of a recent study show that decreased verbal memory can be the result of loss of consciousness (LOC) at the time of suffering a mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI). Many veterans in the U.S.A. — including some in California — who served in other war-torn countries suffer various consequences. This study determined that those with mild traumatic brain injury can also be diagnosed and treated.
Veterans who suffer mild traumatic brain injuries may not experience consequences as severe as those with traumatic brain injury, but diminished verbal memory can have a devastating impact on a person’s life. Three groups were recruited by researchers to take part in this study, including a group with no brain injuries, one with TBI without having lost consciousness and another group with TBI victims who suffered LOC. In the latter group, structural white matter abnormalities were found that could lead to poor memory.
The subjects of the study underwent the usual PTSD and TBI tests, along with assessments to determine their neuropsychological conditions. Memory functions were examined with MRI and Diffusion Tensor Imaging (DTI). The researchers believe the use of DTI can play a major role in identifying mTBI and providing support to victims with diminished cognitive functions. Through proper monitoring, an unanticipated decline in conditions may be recognized in a timely manner, and treatment can be adjusted accordingly.
While this study focused on war veterans who were adversely affected by blasts of explosives, California residents may suffer similar conditions after losing consciousness following head trauma. If such injuries were caused by the negligence of another party, victims might pursue financial relief by filing personal injury claims in a civil court. This type of lawsuit typically requires proof of negligence or an intentional act on the part of the party sued. Showing evidence of traumatic brain injury may need the assistance of an experienced personal injury attorney who may have access to resources that focus on obtaining medical evidence.
Source: medicalxpress.com, “Brain abnormalities found among those experiencing blast-related mild traumatic brain injury“, April 22, 2015
