Suffering traumatic brain injuries can be a serious medical occurrence for people in Connecticut, and throughout the U.S. In general, a penetrating injury, bump, jolt or blow to the head causes these types of injuries. This can occur due to assaults, motor vehicle accidents, work-related accidents and a number of other causes. As a result, people can experience a range of effects. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the effects of traumatic brain injuries may include issues with cognitive function, motor function, sensation and emotion. Recent studies have suggested that suffering injuries of this type may be a risk factor for stroke.
In a study published in the medical journal, Neurology, researchers from the University of Michigan sought to examine the link between brain injuries and ischemic stroke. The researchers examined the emergency department and hospital records of adults in California during a five-year period who suffered brain trauma. They compared those with the records of adults in the state who had sustained traumas, but did not suffer brain injuries. For the study, the researchers adjusted for other stroke risk factors, including heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and the trauma’s severity.
Based on the study’s findings, people with traumatic brain injuries are 30 percent more likely to suffer subsequent strokes than those without brain trauma. Over an average time of 28 months following their injuries, the study found that 1.1 percent of those who suffered head injuries sustained subsequent strokes. This was compared to 0.9 percent of people who did not sustain brain trauma developing strokes.
Depending on the severity of traumatic brain injuries, victims may require long-term medical treatment and care. When such injuries are the result of another’s intentional actions or negligence, the responsible person may be held liable. As such, it may be of benefit for those who have suffered traumatic brain injuries to seek legal counsel and representation. An attorney may help them understand their rights and options.
