what cte

Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE) is a progressive degenerative brain disease associated with repeated head injuries, including concussions and non-concussive impacts. It is commonly found in individuals with a history of repetitive head impacts, such as athletes, military veterans, and others who have experienced repeated blows to the head. CTE is characterized by the degeneration and death of nerve cells in the brain, leading to a range of symptoms, including cognitive impairment, behavioral changes, mood disorders, and motor symptoms. The disease is associated with the development of dementia, and studies have shown that individuals who experience traumatic brain injuries in early to midlife are at an increased risk of developing dementia later in life. CTE can only be definitively diagnosed through autopsy after death, and there is currently no cure for the condition. While there is no cure, certain medicines and treatments may be used to temporarily manage the cognitive and behavioral symptoms associated with CTE. It is important to seek medical attention if there is a suspicion of CTE, as early symptoms may not be noticeable, and the condition slowly worsens over time. The only known way to lower the risk of developing CTE is to avoid repeated head injuries, for example, by wearing appropriate protective equipment during sports and ensuring that head injuries are treated properly. Further research is needed to fully understand the brain changes that occur in CTE and its relationship to dementia.