People can hurt their brains as a result of many different types of incidents, including car crashes and slip-and-falls. Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) can be some of the most devastating injuries in part because of how permanent the consequences can be.
The human brain is an incredible organ, but it does not necessarily heal very well when compared with other parts of the body. Those who develop a TBI will often find that the injury to their brain affects their cognition and memory, although a range of symptoms are possible. Thankfully, researchers have recently reported promising signs of being able to help minimize the long-term memory consequences of a TBI. Specifically, the timely delivery of electrical currents can potentially help enhance memory function for some people.
The brain runs on electricity
What researchers know about how the brain functions makes it clear that electricity plays an important role. As electrical currents make their way through the brain, people experience sensations or recall information. The injury or scarring of the brain generated by a TBI may inhibit the typical flow of electricity in the brain, which could explain memory issues in some cases. Delivering an electrical pulse to the brain behind the ear at the time someone attempts to recall something can increase their memory function by as much as 20% according to early research.
Obviously, far more research is necessary to both validate the benefits of such treatment and to arrange for the timely delivery of an and electrical current when someone requires assistance with recalling information. In the future, however, there may be more options available to those struggling with the cognitive consequences of a TBI.
Getting the best treatment requires resources
For those with a TBI to secure cutting-edge treatments, significant financial resources are often necessary. Depending on the situation that led to a TBI, it may be possible for someone to file a personal injury lawsuit to help fund the costs of getting the best medical care possible.
Learning about care and treatment options can help people see the light at the end of the tunnel when recovering from a major brain injury and better evaluate settlement offers to determine if they are reasonable given their unique circumstances.