Does TBI get worse with age?
It is possible that a traumatic brain injury, or TBI, could worsen with age. However, there is much that the medical field still does not know about this type of injury. To date, it is difficult to say with certainty the effect aging could have on damaged brain cells.
What is known is that the cost of living with a traumatic brain injury could be substantial. If you have suffered a brain injury through no fault of your own, you may be entitled to compensation. This compensation could cover your medical bills or other expenses related to your injury. A Los Angeles traumatic brain injury lawyer could assist you in pursuing a claim for compensation against the at-fault party.
The increased risks of aging with a brain injury
It is possible that older individuals face a higher risk of certain TBI symptoms. Unfortunately, there is relatively little research that directly studies this question. The research that has occurred does suggest that elderly people that have suffered a traumatic brain injury are more likely to suffer from seizures.
There are other conditions that could become more likely as a person who has suffered from a traumatic brain injury ages. The most common example is Parkinson’s disease. A traumatic brain injury could also play a role in causing dementia. While severe brain injuries are linked to these conditions, there is little in the way of evidence that a minor TBI could lead to dementia or Parkinson’s disease.
Aging, brain injuries, and cognitive issues
For some people, cognitive issues go hand in hand with aging. To date, there has been little in the way of research on how a traumatic brain injury could hasten cognitive decline among the aging population.
That said, a person that faces cognitive issues when they age should inform their general practitioner if they have suffered a traumatic brain injury. In addition to seeking medical counsel, it could also be helpful to speak with a traumatic brain injury attorney. Your legal counsel could investigate the cause of your traumatic brain injury and advise you on your right to pursue legal action.
Impact on life expectancy
Unfortunately, the consequences of moderate or severe brain injuries can also dramatically decrease a person’s life expectancy. This is true for a number of reasons. A traumatic brain injury could lead to physical challenges for a person that make it difficult for them to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Severe headaches and chronic pain could make it difficult to exercise or even ensure they meet their own nutritional needs. This can indirectly lead to a short life expectancy for a person that has suffered a TBI.
There are also psychological challenges that could impact a person that has sustained a traumatic brain injury. The challenges that can come with a traumatic brain injury could result in depression or even lead to an increased risk of suicide.
Repeated traumatic brain injuries can also result in a diminished life expectancy. Individuals with a series of head injuries could face an increased risk of CTE, Alzheimer’s, or dementia, among other things.
Talk to an attorney about your traumatic brain injury claim
If you or a loved one are living with a traumatic brain injury, it is understandable if you are concerned that the effects of the injury could worsen with age. While there are questions that remain about the links between TBI symptoms and aging, there is little doubt that these injuries carry extreme consequences in some cases.
You have the right to pursue legal action against the party that caused your TBI. The team at Ellis Injury Law understands the complexity of these injuries and is experienced at pursuing legal claims following a TBI. Call now to schedule your free consultation with our Los Angeles accident lawyers to learn more.