SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS

CTE (Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy) builds up slowly. Many fighters don’t notice the signs at first because they start small. These changes can show up in how you feel, think, or move. Paying attention to your body and mind matters because your brain gives warnings long before things get serious.

The first signs often show up in mood and behaviour. You might feel angry or sad for no clear reason. You could snap at people more easily, lose patience, or act without thinking. Some fighters feel “off” or not themselves. Others notice anxiety, depression, or paranoia. You might stop enjoying things you used to love or lose motivation to train. These changes happen because parts of the brain that control mood and decision-making are affected. Then thinking and memory problems appear. You might forget simple things like where you left your keys, what you were about to do, or the names of people you just met. You could lose focus in the gym or get confused during conversation. Planning, staying organized, or remembering techniques may get harder. Reactions may slow down even if your body feels strong. Physical signs show the brain is struggling. Common ones are constant headaches, dizziness, or trouble balancing, especially after sparring. You might feel tired all the time even after sleeping. Some people notice sensitivity to light or noise, blurred vision, or ringing in the ears. Others see small tremors in their hands or changes in speech, like slurring words or forgetting what they were saying. CTE can affect sleep. Falling asleep, waking up often, or feeling exhausted no matter how long you rest are common. Poor sleep can make symptoms worse, causing more mood swings and slower thinking. Fighters should pay attention to these changes. Even without knockouts, repeated hits affect your brain. Dizziness after sparring, forgetting combos, or mood shifts are signs your brain needs rest. Ignoring them lets the damage grow over time. 

You only have one brain. Recognizing signs early and taking time to recover can protect your health, future, and the sport you love.