Chronic traumatic encephalopathy
Overview
Chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) is a brain condition thought to be linked to repeated head injuries and blows to the head. It slowly gets worse over time and leads to dementia, but the right help and support can manage the symptoms.
Symptoms
Early symptoms of chronic traumatic encephalopathy may not be noticeable at first. They may include: mood changes, such asdepressionor suicidal thoughtspersonality changesbehaviour changes, such as aggression and mood swings As the condition gets worse, you'll have more noticeable problems with thinking and memory. Symptoms include: short-termmemory lossconfusion, such as getting lost or not knowing what time of day it isdifficulties with planning and organisationproblems with movement Symptoms usually start gradually, often around 10 years after having repeated head injuries. The symptoms may get worse gradually or stay the same for years before getting worse.
Causes
If you've had repeated blows to the head orconcussionsover many years, you may have a higher chance of getting chronic traumatic encephalopathy. You're most at risk if you: regularly played contact sports, such as boxing, martial arts, football, rugby and American footballserved in the military and have had blast injurieshave been physically assaulted often, such as from domestic violence Anyone who's had repeated head injuries is at risk, but not everyone will get it. It's thought the only way to lower your risk of getting CTE is to avoid repeated head injuries. For example, you can do this by wearing the correct protective equipment for any sports you play and making sure head injuries are treated properly.
Treatment
Chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) cannot be cured, but medicines and other treatments can help your symptoms. If it's thought you have chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), the support you'll have is similar to the help given to people with dementia. For example: physiotherapy if you have difficulties with movementoccupational therapy for help with things like getting dressed or adapting your home to your needsspeech and language therapy for help with things like memory, speech, and difficulty eating and drinking You'll be seen by a group of specialists, including a GP, a dementia care specialist and social care services. The specialists involved in your care will work together to give you acare planfor your long-term care.