How to Claim Benefits for a Traumatic Brain Injury

Unfortunately, many of those that serve in the military, are never the same following their return to civilian life. Many are plagued with physical issues that will never mend, and others suffer emotional scars that stay with them long after they’ve left the military.

A research paper titled “Military-related traumatic brain injury and neurodegeneration” looks at how many military personnel have experienced traumatic brain injuries (TBI) and need to learn to live their life in a new way.

1. The Effects of TBIs

The CDC states that TBI is the disruption in the functioning of the brain. It is often caused by a head injury such as a hit, blow, jolt, or injury that penetrates the head or skill. Most civilians that experience a TBI are those that play contact sports or are involved in an accident. But TBI as a result of military deployment and training is a different story.

Many Vets experience aggressive training rituals and exercises, many others are on the front lines deployed to war zones, where the risk is greater for injury from combat, bombs, and other blasts. Immediate reactions can include feeling dazed, losing consciousness, and memory loss.

Other conditions that may result from TBI include:

• Headaches
• Sleep issues
• Inability to concentrate and slow thinking
• Memory issues
• Mood changes and irritability

These are all serious issues and can impact the daily lives of those that live with these disabilities. It can result in long-term physical and emotional issues, impact family relationships and reduce the probability of steady employment.

2. Long-term Risks of TBI

A 2018 medical study by the National Library of Medicine found a correlation between TBI and dementia and other health risks. The study found that of nearly 179 Vets with TBI, 6.1% developed dementia, while Vets without TBI had a rate of just 2.5%

Other issues found in Veterans with TBI included:

• Tinnitus (ringing ears)
• Suicide, Vets with a history of TBI are twice as likely to commit suicide.
• Loss of hearing
• Epilepsy
• Blurred vision
• Lethargy
• Sensitivity to light
• Depression and anxiety
• Changes in mood and behavior
• Anger and outbursts
• Confusion

3. Protecting Your Health and Getting the Benefits You Need:

Many Veterans experience side effects from concussions they received while in the military, but many concussions are serious TBIs that have gone undiagnosed. While some Vets completely recover, many experience some of the side effects mentioned above.

It is crucial to seek care from a VA facility that knows what to look for and conducts the proper tests to confirm the seriousness of the injury and whether a TBI is present.

If you are not receiving military benefits for a TBI, you need to file a claim. The Vet will have to prove the following:

• The Vet has a disability due to TBI.
• The Vet’s injury occurred during military service.
• The Vet’s disability is related to military injury.

Conclusion

This can be a daunting experience for anyone and even more difficult for someone with a TBI. To claim veterans disability for a TBI, it is wise to consult with a lawyer that is familiar with military law and benefits. They can walk you through the process and help you navigate the process to get the desired results.