Scientists from a number of leading US medical universities have proposed to consider cranial trauma as a chronic condition due to its lifelong consequences. The researchers reported this in the Journal of Neurotrauma.

According to the authors of the respective commentary, cranial injuries do not require short-term observations, but permanent health supervision, as in cases of diabetes, asthma, depression, and heart failure.

The scientists explained that the strategies of the healthcare systems are mainly based on the work done against the acute phase of the cranial injury, which usually lasts for a year after the injury. But in a considerable number of people who have sustained cranial injuries, the consequences persist throughout their lives. These may include headache, dizziness, confusion of consciousness, and memory problems.

The scientists emphasized that these reactions can be characterized by periods of exacerbation and relaxation, which additionally points to the chronic nature of pathologies caused by cranial injuries.

The authors of the study added that it is necessary to review the instructions for the care and supervision of people with cranial injuries and to introduce individualized treatment plans.