Research has shown that the effects of electric shock on the brain may include neurologic and neuropsychological consequences such as memory loss, depression, deficits in visuospatial reasoning and an injury victim’s inability to perform routine personal and professional tasks.
Voltage that causes effects of electric shock on the brain
Researchers at the Université de Montréal’s Faculty of Medicine and Sainte-Justine Hospital have shown that a shock ranging from 120 to 52,000 volts can cause neurologic and neuropsychological symptoms in humans. (Source: Neurologic and neuropsychological symptoms during the first year after a shock: results of a prospective multicenter studystar. American Journal of Emergency Medicine. May 2008)
What effects on the brain does electric shock have?
The conditions and symptoms associated with the effects that electric shock has on the brain include:
- Emotional and behavioral changes
- Memory loss
- Symptoms of depression
- General fatigue
- Pains
- Muscular weakness
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Problems with concentration
- Loss of mental powers
- Impairment of auditory learning and memory
- Deficits in visuospatial reasoning
- Motor deficits
- Diminished visual reaction time
One researcher has even noted that many victims suffer “real world disabilities” such as losing “the ability to run a business, to keep schedules and financial books, to maintain a diary, and other practical daily tasks.” (Source: “Neurological and neuropsychological consequences of electrical and lightning shock: review and theories of causation,” Christopher J. Andrews, Ph.D., Neural Regeneration Research, May 2017)
How electric shock affects the brain
Although the exact manner which electric shock affects the brain remains unclear, research has shown that the body’s ability to resist the flow of an electrical current is lower in neural tissue than it is in other parts of the body.
Are there any delayed effects?
Neurological and neuropsychological effects of a shock can appear months or even more than a year after the victim was injured. Research has shown that the following conditions and symptoms can occur: motor neuron disorder, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, parkinsonism, focal dystonia and tics as well as personality change, poor concentration, emotional lability, forgetfulness and a deterioration of cognitive functioning.
Need help from an experienced electrocution lawyer?
If you or someone you love is a victim of serious personal injury or death caused by electricity, please call us toll free at (947) 282-4269 for a free consultation.
