Neurotrauma

Neurological trauma, or neurotrauma, involves damage to crucial areas of the nervous system. These areas can include traumatic brain injuries and spinal cord injuries that have catastrophic effects on the body; especially on a child’s body that is still growing. Since a child’s brain is still in development, the child may not display symptoms of neurotrauma immediately after the accident. In many cases, the condition may continue to develop as the child ages.

Regardless of the age or language ability of the child, it can be difficult for younger patients to understand and describe the pain they are experiencing. After 20 years of specializing in pediatric neurosurgery, Dr. Loudon will be able to understand the child’s pain and identify the best possible treatment options. Since the child’s brain is still developing, the treatment process may not be the same as an older patient.

Signs and symptoms of neurotrauma

Symptoms of neurotrauma in children and adults may be similar, but children will face more difficulty in their development as a result of said symptoms. An adult has already established social behaviors, established methods for processing information, gained the ability to learn and more. A child is still learning those behaviors and a traumatic brain injury from neurotrauma can inhibit the development process. Thus, many of the neurotrauma symptoms for children will develop as the child continues to age, adding difficulty to normal everyday functions.

Symptoms of neurotrauma or traumatic brain injury in children can include a sudden change in eating or nursing habits. A parent will be more likely to recognize the drastic changes in the child’s behavior and separate them from common behavioral changes that come with age. While some changes may seem common and possibly are, parents need to watch for symptoms that linger longer than normal. For instance, a child struggling with neurotrauma may experience changes in sleep patterns, unusual irritability, an unknown depressed mood or a loss of interest in once-loved activities.

While interests and moods can change as the child grows up, if the changes seem out of place or for unknown reasons then the parent needs to get the child medical attention. By seeking a specialist, such as Dr. Loudon, parents can help their child begin the treatment process for a better future. Too often, children struggling with neurotrauma will go misunderstood by other medical professionals and receive the wrong or no treatment at all. Dr. Loudon will identify the neurotrauma and administer the best treatment possible.