Pituitary Gland Damage After a TBI
The body requires all of its hormones to be in a delicate balance for its organs to function correctly. The organs that produce these hormones are part of the endocrine system. They include:
- The hypothalamus
- The pituitary
- The adrenal glands
- The pancreas
- The brain
The organs that are part of the endocrine system receive their original orders from the brain. The brain sends out electrical signals to the hypothalamus, which then transmits hormones that feed the rest of the organs in this endocrine system. If the brain is damaged, such as in an auto accident, the endocrine system as a whole could be derailed, leading to significant problems with the body’s hormonal structure. The pituitary gland is a small organ that sits beneath the brain. Acting as a stalk, it produces some essential hormones that are critical to the body’s function.
Pituitary Gland Damage from a Traumatic Brain Injury
If someone has symptoms of a traumatic brain injury, there can be damage to the pituitary gland as well. The pituitary gland produces a variety of hormones, including growth hormone (GH), thyroid hormone (TSH), adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), and luteinizing hormone (LH). Someone who has sustained pituitary damage in an accident will have lower levels of these hormones and could experience a variety of symptoms. A lack of ACTH can lead to lower levels of hormones from the adrenal cortex, which may include weakness, nausea, vomiting, and weight loss. A lack of LH can lead to lower levels of testosterone, which could manifest as decreased energy, decreased passion, and gradual loss of muscle strength. A drop in the levels of TSH will lead to lower levels of thyroid hormone, which may cause hypothyroidism. This can lead to a variety of symptoms including weight gain, decreased levels of energy, dry skin, brittle hair, and cold intolerance. The growth hormone, in addition to causing growth, plays a vital role in the regulation of insulin and glucagon. A lack of growth hormone could increase the risk of diabetes. These can be severe, even life-threatening symptoms, which require the attention of a medical professional.
Assistance from a Lawyer
If someone has problems with their endocrine function following the diagnosis of a traumatic brain injury, this could lead to significant, chronic, medical issues. Over time, the medications and doctors’ appointments can become expensive, creating a substantial amount of stress for a family. If this happens, meeting with a personal injury lawyer in Sacramento can be helpful. An experienced lawyer can help a family review all of their options and decide on the most appropriate course of action.
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I’m Ed Smith, a Sacramento Personal Injury Lawyer. If someone you know has suffered damage to their endocrine system in an accident, please call me at (916) 921-6400 or (800) 404-5400 for free, friendly legal advice.
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