Brain injuries can cause major lifestyle and financial changes for those affected. While the symptoms generated by a TBI may stabilize or improve after the initial injury heals, some of the symptoms people experience will be lifelong health issues. Many people report memory challenges and other cognitive symptoms after a TBI that affect their ability to live independently or continue working a job.
Thankfully, recent research into the memory loss issues associated with TBIs shows that electrical treatments might make a major difference in some cases.
How could electricity help someone with a TBI?
The way that the brain accesses memories or shares information with other parts of the body has to do with the passage of electrical impulses through the brain and the nervous system. Researchers have experimented with implanted devices that provide electrical stimulation to the brains of those with TBIs.
What they have found is that those who have received a pulse of electricity in a moment when they could not recall something important reported improved cognition and recall. Such research is obviously in the earliest stages, and there will be a lot of time and investment required to fine-tune such treatments to make them accessible, effective and affordable for members of the public. However, this research is very promising for those who report memory and cognitive challenges caused by a TBI.
Accessing the best care can be expensive
Those coping with the aftermath of a brain injury may incur massive medical costs and could also experience diminished earning potential because of their symptoms. Their financial circumstances might, therefore, make accessing cutting-edge and experimental treatment impossible.
Those who pursue personal injury lawsuits or carefully negotiate insurance settlements may be in a better position to get the care that they require to maintain the best possible standard of living after developing a TBI because of another’s negligence or intentional action. Ultimately, understanding the likely impact of a TBI and the treatments available may benefit those who are interested in pursuing compensation after sustaining a preventable moderate or severe brain injury.