Core Health & Head Injuries

Most people who suffer a traumatic brain injury (TBI) from a blow to the head live a long, healthy life. However, there is evidence that core health may be affected and symptoms may appear days, months and even years after the head injury.

Causes

• All hormonal axes in the body are connected.

  A TBI may injure cranial nerves or disrupt the pituitary gland that controls major hormones in the body. The TBI may lead to neuroendocrine disorders because of the disruption of major, interrelated hormonal axes such as adrenals and thyroid. While the glands remain organically normal, they might not function normally.

Symptoms

• The multiple symptoms from a head injury may lead to unsuspected conditions.

  The most common symptom after TBI is hyponatremia (low sodium), due to a disruption of the antidiuretic hormone (SIADH). Other symptoms are fatigue, low blood pressure, muscle weakness, back pain and low muscle tone. Mental symptoms are depression, confusion and apathy. Nerve injuries may cause movement disorders.

What To Do

• A normal gland can malfunction due to secondary effects.

  Apparent unrelated symptoms can be caused by TBI. See an endocrinologist if symptoms persist. Treat any spinal injury that may have occurred. If you see a physician for hormonal symptoms, mention the TBI event. You don't want to get hormonal treatment for glands that are normal but malfunction temporarily due to pituitary gland trauma.