Early Onset Dementia May be Risk of Brain Injury

A study recently published in the journal of Biological Psychiatry has discovered a link between accelerated dementia and traumatic brain injury (TBI) and brain infections. Individuals affected by dementia may see an acceleration of their condition when inflammation of the brain occurs because of a brain injury that also leads to an infection.

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; however, until recently, little research had been done on the link between systemic inflammation and dementia/neurodegenerative diseases.

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.” Dementia is also a progressive condition that is marked by a lengthy list of symptoms, as described by the NLM. 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. An article from a February 2008 New York Times article noted that long-term care is needed for dementia patients.

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. Individuals can receive a free legal consultation from a traumatic brain injury attorney who can offer assistance for victims of TBI.