Veterans explain toll of traumatic brain injuries now seen in Iran war
AP News • • nation
Key Points:
- Joe Shearer, a Marine veteran, links his traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) from blasts in Iraq to ongoing symptoms like dizziness, migraines, and memory loss, highlighting the lasting impact of such injuries on service members.
- Nearly 700 U.S. troops have suffered TBIs from recent drone and missile attacks in the Middle East, with many returning to duty despite potential long-term effects that are difficult to predict.
- Medical experts emphasize the unique nature of blast-related brain injuries compared to blunt trauma and the importance of proper screening and recovery to prevent worsening conditions.
- Lawmakers are urging investigations into the care provided to troops wounded by Iranian drone strikes, amid concerns about delayed or inadequate treatment for TBIs.
- While treatments like speech and physical therapy can aid recovery by helping the brain create new neural pathways, veterans often face ongoing challenges and stigma due to the invisible nature of these injuries.
