Researchers at the University of Maryland School of Medicine have discovered a two-way link among traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) and changes in the colon. This may account for the increase in systemic infections that usually accompany a TBI. New Jersey residents that have experienced or know someone who has sustained a TBI will want to know more about this study.
The researchers analyzed the effects of TBIs in mice in order to reach their conclusions. The mice exhibited delayed, long-term changes in their colons as well as systemic infections in the gastrointestinal system. Since the colon was observed to become more permeable, it allowed the spread of harmful, infectious microbes. This, in turn, increased the chances of the mice exhibiting tissue loss and brain inflammation.
Researchers believe that enteric glial cells, or cells in the nerves of the intestines, are somehow activated by trauma to the head, but their connection to the subsequent inflammation and tissue loss is up for debate. The hippocampus, which is the part of the brain responsible for storing long-term and short-term memory as well as spatial memory (the memory of places and objects), was especially damaged after TBIs. The authors conclude that TBIs can lead to a sort of vicious cycle, where brain injuries affect the gut, which, in turn, worsen the brain injuries.
All of this is important to remember whenever anyone wants to file an injury claim following a car accident. A lawyer can hire investigators and bring in medical experts to track all the effects of the traumatic brain injury, which may include intestinal disruptions. That way, the potential settlement can cover treatment costs for all of these different conditions. An attorney can also handle all negotiations with the negligent driver’s auto insurance company. If these negotiations fall through, a lawyer can then proceed with litigation.
