Thousands of American troops have returned from Iraq after suffering a major injury; many of them from brain injuries. The Institute of Medicine estimates that approximately 22% of wounded soldiers suffer from traumatic brain injury.
A serious brain injury will put soldiers at risk for long-term health problems, including depression and Alzheimer’s disease. Therefore, it is very important that these patients be monitored over the upcoming years to pick up future symptoms in their early stages.
Traumatic brain injury is one of the most common injuries suffered in the Iraq War. However, unlike brain injuries sustained by soldiers in previous wars, these are not generally from a gunshot wound to the head. Rather, they stem from damage to the inside of the skull caused by an explosion’s pressure wave.
These blast-induced brain injuries can range from a mild concussion to a more severe injury. Frequently, symptoms do not develop immediately. As a result, many soldiers don’t know to seek treatment until it is too late.
Doctors are still trying to gain a better grasp on the nature of these blast-induced brain injuries. However, it is apparent that more research on these injuries is needed if troops are to receive the proper treatment required of this condition. Many soldiers have sought treatment for headaches, dizziness, memory loss, confusion, irritability, insomnia, and depression.
Soldiers exhibiting any of these symptoms should get examined by a doctor immediately to make sure that they have not sustained a major brain injury. Medical treatment for these conditions should be covered by the government. If medical claims are denied, it is important to consult an experienced brain injury lawyer immediately to ensure you receive proper coverage for your injuries.
If you have sustained a traumatic brain injury from serving in Iraq and live in the Phoenix, Arizona area, please contact the law offices of Snyder & Wenner, P.C. today to schedule an initial consultation.
