What Is CTE? Understanding Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy

Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE) is a progressive, degenerative brain condition caused by repeated head trauma. Once primarily associated with professional athletes, especially football players and boxers, CTE is now recognized as a broader public health issue that can affect veterans, accident survivors, and others exposed to repetitive brain injuries.

CTE impacts the way the brain functions over time, leading to symptoms that affect memory, behavior, emotion, and physical coordination.

Although once misunderstood and misdiagnosed, growing awareness and research into CTE are helping families and caregivers better support those who may be living with its effects.

What Causes CTE?

CTE develops over time from repeated head impacts - even those that don't result in a diagnosed concussion. These impacts cause damage to brain cells and the accumulation of an abnormal protein called tau, which gradually spreads throughout the brain and disrupts normal function.

This differs from a single traumatic brain injury (TBI). CTE is linked specifically to repetitive hits to the head over months or years.

Populations at higher risk include:

Contact sport athletes (football, hockey, boxing, soccer)
Military veterans exposed to blast injuries
Survivors of repeated domestic violence
Individuals with repeated falls, especially in late life

👉 The Boston University CTE Center is a fantastic resource on CTE

Common Signs and Symptoms

CTE symptoms can take years - even decades - to appear. Many individuals begin showing signs long after they’ve stopped playing sports or experiencing head trauma.

The most common symptoms include:

Cognitive and Memory Symptoms

Difficulty concentrating
Short-term memory loss
Executive dysfunction (planning, judgment, organization)
Confusion or disorientation

Behavioral and Emotional Symptoms

Aggression or impulse control problems
Depression and anxiety
Mood swings
Paranoia or suicidal thoughts

Neurological Symptoms (in advanced stages)

Tremors
Speech difficulties
Balance issues
Parkinsonian symptoms

These symptoms can overlap with other types of dementia, such as Alzheimer's or Lewy Body Dementia, which can make diagnosis more challenging.

Diagnosing CTE

Currently, CTE can only be definitively diagnosed after death, through an autopsy that detects tau protein deposits in specific regions of the brain.

However, researchers are working on diagnostic tools to identify patterns of CTE symptoms during life - using a combination of neurological exams, brain imaging, and patient history.

If a loved one has a history of repeated head trauma and is experiencing cognitive or behavioral changes, it’s important to consult a neurologist or specialist familiar with traumatic brain injuries.

👉 The Concussion Legacy Foundation is a helpful resource

How Is CTE Treated?

While there’s no cure for CTE, treatment focuses on managing symptoms and supporting quality of life. This includes:

Therapy for mood disorders, anxiety, or behavioral changes
Cognitive rehabilitation for memory and attention challenges
Medications for depression, irritability, or sleep disturbances
Lifestyle changes including exercise, nutrition, and routine building

Caregivers can play a vital role in helping maintain structure and safety, especially as symptoms progress.

Living With or Caring for Someone With Suspected CTE

If you suspect a loved one is experiencing symptoms of CTE, early support and understanding are key. Some helpful strategies include:

Creating consistent daily routines
Encouraging expression and communication of feelings
Avoiding overstimulation - noisy environments can increase agitation
Using technology for reminders, structure, and communication
Joining support groups for brain injury or dementia caregivers

👉 Check out our article on The Importance of Support Groups for Caregivers

Prevention: Reducing the Risks

Prevention remains the most effective tool in reducing CTE cases. This includes:

Proper helmet use in sports and cycling
Strict adherence to concussion protocols
Educating athletes, parents, and coaches on safe play
Reducing exposure to repeated head trauma, even from “sub-concussive” hits
Fall prevention strategies for seniors

👉 Take a look at the Concussion Legacy Foundation's CTE Prevention Protocol

Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy is a serious and complex brain condition, but one that we are finally beginning to understand. While diagnosis remains limited, awareness and support can make a profound difference for individuals and families facing its effects.

If you or a loved one has a history of repeated head trauma and is showing signs of memory loss, behavioral changes, or emotional instability, don’t ignore the signs. Early action, education, and empathy are essential.