While many assume the wounds of war are visible, veterans of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan are reporting an injury that is difficult to diagnose and even tougher to treat: traumatic brain injury. Though military reports claim only 150,000 soldiers have suffered a brain injury since the wars began, outside observers estimate the number is closer to 400,000. The discrepancy could be credited to the difficult of diagnosis, but many soldiers allege that our military is simply not providing them with the treatment they need and deserve, prolonging their suffering, worsening their symptoms and delaying their care.

The warfare waged in Iraq and Afghanistan is relatively new, and with new weapons come new injuries. Roadside bombs and improvised explosive devices can cause horrific injuries, but the shock waves from these weapons can be just as deadly, damaging the brain while leaving the body intact. Because brain injuries can’t be detected by the naked eye, many sufferers continue on, ignoring the headaches, vertigo and memory lapses that are common to traumatic brain injuries. When a soldier finally requests treatment, he is often told he has a psychological disorder, such as post-traumatic stress disorder, and is prescribed anti-anxiety medication or therapy. He is then left to suffer his symptoms and is refused the treatment he so desperately needs.

Failing to diagnose a traumatic brain injury as soon as possible can significantly decrease the chances for recovery. Vast amounts of medical literature confirm that early and appropriate treatment can prevent further damage. A majority of our injured soldiers suffer concussions, which can result in decreased brain activity, epilepsy, brain disorders and even death if left untreated.

Unfortunately, traumatic brain injuries can differ widely in terms of treatment – all brains function differently, which causes them to respond to treatment differently. However, most leading neurocognitive specialists recommend months of intensive therapy for patients with even mild traumatic brain injury. In comparison, many of our injured troops receive only a few hours per week or none at all. Delaying treatment can result in mental disuse syndrome, in which the brain is not being used, allowing soldiers’ symptoms to worsen. Many of our soldiers may go years without a proper diagnosis and access to treatment, leaving them unable to perform simple tasks or keep a job.

Fortunately, the government has established a program to help our veterans receive compensation for the injuries they’ve suffered while defending our freedom. Service-Connected Disability Compensation is a tax-free benefit available to veterans who suffer from a disability or illness that was caused or aggravated in the course of their service. Veterans already receiving Service-Connected Disability Compensation may also be entitled to a reevaluation of their current benefits.

Unfortunately, too many of our wounded veterans don’t know that help is available. Only a fraction of those eligible for increased benefits have applied – even though an overwhelming majority of requests for improved benefits have been approved. The military’s failure to adequately provide veterans with the information they need to receive the care they deserve has left many struggling, which is why the attorneys of Weitz Garfinkle Datz have begun lecturing to veterans’ organizations on the eligibility requirements for Service-Connected Disability Compensation. We are committed to supporting the men and women who defend our country by winning them the benefits they deserve and getting them the treatment they need. If you or a family member were injured during service to our country, please visit our Web site at www.protectourveterans.com or contact us (215) 545-9300.

Eric H. Weitz, a civil trial attorney, has represented many victims of varying brain injuries ranging from severe traumatic brain injuries, cerebral palsy secondary to hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy and brain radiation injuries to persistent post concussion syndrome. He is accredited for the preparation, presentation and prosecution of claims for veterans’ benefits before the Department of Veterans Affairs, and he has represented many brain injury victims in appeals of healthcare benefits denials pro bono.

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