Concussions and Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy

Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy, or CTE, is a progressive degenerative disease found in those who have been subjected to multiple concussions and other forms of head injury. It is being found in professional athletes, i.e.: those who play football, hockey, wrestling and other contact sports.

With autopsy, there has been evidence found in many athletes since 2008. In the eleven professional football players who received autopsies, Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy was discovered in each case. Studies have shown that with repetitive blows, the brain significantly alters permanently.

For those suffering from CTE, they will show symptoms of dementia, memory loss, aggression, confusion and depression. These symptoms can appear quite soon following injuries or may not appear until decades later. Behaviors may be similar to those who suffer from Alzheimer's Disease. It is a build-up of an abnormal protein call tau which clumps in and around the brain disrupting its function.

Some initial symptoms are: attention deterioration, disorientation, dizziness, headaches, slowed muscular movements, tremors and vertigo. As the disease progresses, individuals may display erratic behavior and possibly symptoms similar to those of Parkinson's disease. With CTE's further deterioration, overt symptoms of dementia will be evident, along with speech difficulties, gait abnormalities, difficulty swallowing, a drooping eyelid and lack of control of facial muscles.

Concussions therefore, must be taken extremely seriously. Three weeks should be the minimum time for recovery with a graduated level of activity constituting initially of only light activity progressing gradually to more physical contact. Parents and coaches need to be particularly diligent in watching for subtle changes in athlete's behavior following a concussion and especially when there has been more than one concussion. Children playing contact sports are running long-term risks as some concussions are not being diagnosed.

Studies are being done in an attempt to delay the onset of dementia following concussions. Some athletes are now leaving their brains to scientists so more studies can be done to determine how CTE can be prevented.

According to Boston University, the disease was first discovered in boxers as early as the 1920's. Researchers have noted a pattern of suicide and suicidal behavior in CTE victims. Professional football players, especially those playing in the positions of lineman and linebacker, typically receive multiple hits to the head during every game and practice. It is estimated that they could receive as many as 1,000 hits per season.

Researchers are expounding the importance of brain trauma guidelines being developed to protect athletes and those playing youth sports. They further state that brain trauma education should be mandatory for all coaches, athletes and parents.

Repetitive brain trauma, which includes concussive blows to the head has not, until recently, been treated seriously. With recent research, every indication shows that concussions must be treated with extreme caution and importance. It is urged that this must begin today because tomorrow is too late.