Side Effects of Traumatic Brain Injury Medications
The medications that are used to treat traumatic brain injuries can lead to some severe side effects. While these medicines could be necessary to help with the recovery process, they also come with risks. Some of the most common medications that might be prescribed include:
- Steroids to reduce inflammation
- Mannitol to lower intracranial pressure
- Diuretics such as Lasix or Diamox
- Blood pressure medications such as Amlodipine or Propranolol
All of these medications can lead to side effects.
Chronic Headaches from Changes in Intracranial Pressure
There are several types of headaches that might result following a head or brain injury. These include:
- Tension-type headaches
- Migraine headaches both with and without aura
- Cluster headaches
Mannitol, along with steroids, is used to reduce inflammation and lower the brain’s intracranial pressure. This is important for reducing the chances of a brain herniation. On the other hand, rapid changes in intracranial pressure could also lead to severe headaches. These headaches could lead to emotional irritability, trouble sleeping, and chronic fatigue.
Repeated Syncope
Blood pressure medications, such as calcium-channel blockers and beta-blockers, could cause the blood pressure to drop too low. These could lead to a variety of side effects, including:
- A low heart rate
- Fatigue
- Blurry vision
- Repeated fainting, also called syncope
Those who notice themselves repeatedly passing out or having blurry vision should have their blood pressure checked. The dosage of their blood pressure medications might have to be adjusted.
Electrolyte Disturbances and Dehydration
Diuretics, such as Lasix and Diamox, work by altering the body’s electrolytes to increase urine output. This lowers blood pressure and can alleviate swelling within the brain. This can also lead to severe electrolyte imbalances. Changes in the body’s sodium, potassium, and chloride could lead to serious side effects, including:
- Cardiac arrhythmias
- Muscle cramps
- Seizures
- Dehydration
Those taking a diuretic should make sure that they understand how it is going to impact their electrolytes. Serious side effects could result. Furthermore, with increased urine output, individuals are also prone to developing dehydration.
Watch YouTube Video: Prescription Drug Side Effects. In the following video, Dr. Sten Ekberg with Wellness For Life explains the side effects of prescription drugs that you may not be aware of.
Contacting a Brain Injury Lawyer
A traumatic brain injury is always serious and deserves the attention of a trained medical professional. After seeking medical care, it is also essential for families to meet with a brain injury lawyer in Fresno. An experienced lawyer can help families review accident records, pursue damages related to their injuries, and expedite the recovery process. Meet with a Fresno brain injury lawyer today. Your family could be owed a significant financial award.
Fresno Brain Injury Lawyer
I’m Ed Smith, a Fresno Brain Injury Lawyer. The medications that are used to treat traumatic brain injuries could lead to serious side effects. Should you or a family member sustain a traumatic brain injury, please call me at (559) 377-7676 or (800) 404-5400 to receive free, friendly advice.
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