The existing guidelines for determining a traumatic brain injury are based on the American Academy of Neurology's definition for mild traumatic brain injury. Before, head injuries were thought to be less serious if the soldier did not black out from the trauma. Traumatic brain injury has been called a signature wound of the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. This trauma can cause mood swings, memory loss, depression, and paranoia, among other symptoms. Unfortunately, initial detection can be problematic and at first can appear to be symptom-free.
The Pentagon has since stepped up its response to traumatic brain injuries, and since last summer have required 24-hour rest for any personnel suffering even a mild concussion. If a second head injury occurs, they are then required to spend seven days with no physical activity. If a third head injury occurs, an evaulation by a neurologist is required.
Amos likes to refer to this approach as the "three strikes and you're in," meaning inside the wire and not out in the field.
