Autoimmune reactions after a traumatic brain injury could begin within hours if the blood-brain barrier and gut-brain axis become compromised. The future of medicine for traumatic brain injury patients is changing. Current research and studies conducted during the past five to ten years surrounding the autoimmune antibody connection to traumatic brain injury indicate the body’s immune system deteriorating after injury. Although not all brain injury research is bleak, knowledgeable patients can take charge of their health during the early stages of trauma by working with the right medical team while learning to recognize and manage the possibility of TBI triggered health conditions.

As developments in medical studies emerge, many physicians leading the way in functional health are changing the landscape of conventional treatment and diagnostic processes associated with brain injuries and autoimmune disease.  There may be several contributing factors to autoimmune reactions after a traumatic brain injury.  Blocking neuroinflammation, changing our diet, and reducing stress are a few critical changes that functional medical physicians often discuss with their patients.

A frontrunner in functional health education on the brain and autoimmune conditions is Dr. Datis Kharrazian, Ph.D., DHSc, DC, MS, MMSc, FACN, the author of “Why Isn’t My Brain Working.” He quotes, “For example, a person who sustains a head injury suddenly develops an autoimmune disease. Or a problem in brain function sparks multiple food intolerances. When brain injury or impairment triggers an inflammatory response in the body, it’s known as a “brain-immune dysregulation disorder.” This is an emerging field in neuroimmunology, and researchers now understand the brain profoundly impacts the body’s immune system. Compromised brain health can alter immune regulation and modulation (balancing) of inflammation throughout the entire body.”

The term “leaky gut” has become a leading topic in medical health news and recent studies. However, the term leaky brain is another controversial discussion on the rise. Studies surrounding the viability of a leaky brain, or blood-brain barrier connection to cognitive injury and decline shows damaged blood vessels compromising the health of the patient. Across the country, doctors and brain injury advocates for athletes in the contact sports sector are teaming together. Their goal is to help athletes with concussions find answers and solutions for care, starting with the state of the art blood-brain barrier testing panels offered by Cyrex laboratories.

Diagnostics and treatment options for traumatic brain injuries and autoimmune conditions are broadening. An informed patient, their family, or caregivers can make wise choices for the betterment of the patient’s future health.