Current evidence continues to indicate that injuries such as mild traumatic brain injuries and concussions must be taken seriously. The journal Neurology asserts that even a mild traumatic brain injury that includes a loss of consciousness for half an hour or less can raise the risk of Parkinson’s disease by an astounding 56%. There is no cure for Parkinson’s disease, and the condition can cause issues with balance and walking, stiff limbs, and tremors. If you’re a Massachusetts resident, here are some things you should know about the link between Parkinson’s and serious personal injury.
Parkinson’s disease research
Details from the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) electronic records from 2002 to 2014 were evaluated. The serious personal injury results reveal that 325,870 veterans over the age of 18 who had a traumatic brain injury (TBI)were compared to a random age-matched group who did not have a TBI. Individuals with a moderate or severe TBI have a surprising 83% higher risk of developing Parkinson’s disease. Veterans with a mild TBI have a 56% risk of Parkinson’s.
Using the information from research
Serious personal injury research indicates that there are two main stages for traumatic brain injuries. The first stage is the teenage years when TBI occurs mostly due to car accidents and sports injuries. The second stage is later in life if a person suffers a bad fall. Helmets are recommended for sports and military service to prevent injury to the brain. Older individuals who are more likely to lose their balance and fall should undergo balance and driving assessments to lower the risk of injury.
It is also vital for anyone who suffers a head injury to seek medical attention right away. This is recommended even if the injury does not result in a loss of consciousness.
