What are the early signs of CTE?

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The early signs of Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE) can be quite subtle and may overlap with symptoms of other conditions. and discuss that these signs often appear in individuals who have stopped playing contact sports and may include:

  1. Cognitive Deficits: Early signs may include problems with memory, attention, and brain processing speed. Cognitive deficits can be detected using EEG technology, which measures the brain's electrical activity and processing efficiency 1.

  2. Behavioral Changes: These can include impulsivity, aggression, and depression. Behavioral changes might persist long after a player has stopped sustaining head injuries 2.

  3. Post-Concussion Syndrome: Athletes may experience prolonged symptoms related to concussions, such as headaches, dizziness, and emotional instability. This syndrome can last months or even years and can lead to the development of CTE 3.

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Early intervention is crucial. Being aware of these symptoms and seeking a diagnosis from a specialist in concussion and post-concussion syndromes can improve outcomes. Utilizing a multidisciplinary approach involving physical therapy, occupational therapy, and neuropsychology is usually recommended 3.

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