Many people who have suffered from a traumatic brain injury, as well as their family and other loved ones, wonder if the brain injury can predispose the survivor to neurological diseases such asAlzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease. While there are no definitive answers, intense research continues in this area.
TBI and Alzheimer’s Disease
The relationship between traumatic brain injury and Alzheimer’s continues to be studied. To date, studies indicate that moderate to severe traumatic brain injury shortens the period before the disease would have otherwise developed in patient’s who are predisposed to this condition. Some studies also show that there might be a link between TBI and the development of Alzheimer’s in general.
TBI and Parkinson’s Disease
To date, research does not show a correlation between one single traumatic brain injury and the development of Parkinson’s disease. However, there is a link between repeated blows to the head, such as those sustained in boxing and in other sports, and the risk of developing Parkinson’s. In addition, patients with Parkinson’s show an aggravation of symptoms following brain injury.