A report published in the journal Medical Hypotheses has posited a theory explaining how head trauma incurred years earlier leads to a deterioration in brain functions. West Virginia residents should know that it is called the “Beehive Theory”. According to this theory, a traumatic brain injury can dislodge certain microbes that lie dormant in the brain like bees in a hive.

These microbes, which are present even in normal brains, release toxins and antigens that subsequently cause brain inflammation and brain damage. With these come the cognitive impairment and behavioral changes that are characteristic of late-stage head trauma. Many TBI victims suffer depression and commit suicide.

The author of the study hopes that brain trauma researchers will further analyze the link between TBIs and cognitive deterioration. It could be that a blood test, antibiotic, anti-inflammatory drug or vaccine could be developed for the microbes that are released. That way, the inflammation and damage could be treated or even prevented.

Head trauma is frequently experienced by players in contact sports like football, soccer and boxing. Soldiers also incur it after surviving a blast. People may also incur a head injury in an accident, such as a slip and fall or a car crash. Traumatic brain injuries can be catastrophic, leaving victims in the need of lengthy and expensive medical care and treatment. In many cases, TBI victims are unable to return to work for prolonged periods if at all. If it can be demonstrated that the head injury was the result of the negligence of another party, then an attorney could be of assistance in seeking compensation for the victim’s losses.