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Pituitary and growth hormone deficiencies following a TBI

Accidents happen, and many individuals in Alabama and elsewhere understand that it is a part of life that is sometimes unavoidable. Therefore, so many opt to have insurance policies protecting them if they are hurt in an unexpected incident. While it is helpful to be prepared to the unknown, this does not take away the pain and suffering that goes along with a serious injury. Oftentimes, these injuries impact an individual well beyond the immediate future, resulting in an accident victim dealing with physical, mental and emotional damages for several years or for the rest of their life.

Traumatic brain injuries

A traumatic brain injury or a TBI is an injury that could range from a very mild case to a severe one that could significantly impact a victim’s life or even result in his or her death. Whether one is a child or an adult, a mild TBI could have unexpected consequences. Current statistics suggest that around 2.5 million individuals, both adults and children, suffer a TBI each year. While some have minor and short-lived symptoms and health issues, others could experience less noticeable and long-term issues.

Long-term endocrine issues

Based on recent research, it was determined that a mild TBI could result in pituitary deficiencies or deficiencies in growth hormone as a direct result from the injury. Both children and adults could suffer from this; however, it is slightly more concerning when a child suffers from this, as they are still growing.

Because it is not always obvious that a victim of a TBI is suffering from an endocrine issue, such as a pituitary or growth hormone deficiency, it is important to consider all the immediate signs of TBI symptoms as well as the hidden long-term impacts of the injury. Common symptoms of a growth hormone deficiency are not always specific and clear but will often include a decreased muscle mass, physical capacity, and quality of life, as well as increased visceral fat, poor growth, fatigue and impaired cognitive functions.

Residual symptoms are fairly common in TBI victims. This means that some of these issues could go undetected because it isn’t apparent that one is experiencing these issues until weeks, months or even years after a TBI. Thus, it is important that TBI victims are aware of this, considering the possibility that he or she may develop or show signs and symptoms long after the initial injury.

A catastrophic injury, such as a traumatic brain injury could impact an accident victim in ways that are very unexpected. This could result in the need for medical treatment for years to come. Thus, it is important that victims fully understand the matter at hand and what could be done to ensure he or she is protected. A personal injury action could help a victim with current and future losses and damages.