There may be good news on the horizon for victims of traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). Because of the prevalence of TBIs among military personnel, the Office of Veterans Affairs (VA) has been conducting research into possible treatments. Taking hints from a study of mice at the University of Colorado in Boulder, the agency may have gained some insight.
The mice study was conducted by Christopher Lowry who previously noted a connection between inflammation and psychiatric disorders. To further study the effects, his team injected mice with a stomach bacteria known to have anti-inflammatory properties. Using Mycobacterium vaccae, the mice exhibited reduced levels of both inflammation and anxiety. However, the compound would need to be tested in human clinical trials before it is made available for common use. This could take years, even decades.
The VA is concerned with soldiers and the implications for treating PTSD as well as TBIs. The VA plans to expand the study conducted by Lowry to include a common over-the-counter remedy. Lactobacillus reuteri is a probiotic used to help infants suffering from stomachaches; it is also an anti-inflammatory.
The VA study is already underway using 40 patients suffering from PTSD and TBIs. If the study is successful, it means that millions of people suffering from traumatic brain injuries may find relief soon.
Causes and Symptoms of TBIs
Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) can result from violent blows to the head, objects penetrating the skull, or sudden jolts to the body. Traumatic brain injuries also include concussions. Although considered the least severe TBI, concussions can be life-threatening if untreated. Some such injuries cause memory loss and other debilitating effects.
Even a mild brain injury can cause a person to suffer a lifetime of physical and psychological ailments.
The CDC lists TBIs as a major cause of fatal injury and disability in the United States; in 2010 there were 2.5 million such injuries. The major cause of these injuries are falls, impacting mostly children and senior citizens.
Cherry Hill Personal Injury Lawyers at Folkman Law Offices, P.C. Help TBI Victims
Roughly 10 percent of TBIs are the result of assaults and 14 percent are caused by car accidents. Millions of people each year suffer needlessly because of the negligence of others. Although news of this study is welcome, it does not negate the suffering already experienced by those who have been injured in car accidents and assaults.
When you or someone you love has suffered from a traumatic brain injury because of the negligent acts of others, you have a right to compensation including medical expenses, lost wages, and more. Cherry Hill personal injury lawyers at Folkman Law Offices, P.C. help TBI victims recover maximum compensation for their losses. For a free case review, contact us online or call now at 856-354-9444.
