Storming after a brain injury is a serious medical condition that can happen in patients with moderate to severe traumatic brain injury (TBI). Also called paroxysmal sympathetic hyperactivity (PSH), this condition involves sudden and repeated episodes of elevated heart rate, blood pressure, body temperature, and muscle contractions. These episodes can begin anywhere from a few hours to several days after the injury.
If your loved one is experiencing storming symptoms after a TBI caused by a car crash or other trauma, you don’t have to navigate this alone. A San Luis Obispo brain injury lawyer can help you understand your legal options while your family focuses on healing.
What causes storming after a brain injury?
Storming occurs when the autonomic nervous system becomes dysregulated following a TBI. Normally, the autonomic nervous system balances between the sympathetic nervous system (SNS) and the parasympathetic nervous system, which control functions like heart rate, digestion, and body temperature.
When storming starts, the body is stressed and essentially gets stuck in “fight or flight mode,” with the sympathetic nervous system firing repeatedly and without warning. This leads to:
- Sudden spikes in heart rate
- Increased blood pressure
- Sweating and elevated body temperature
- Rigid or jerking muscles
- Rapid breathing
- Anxiety
These episodes may be triggered by something as small as changing positions in bed, bright lights, loud sounds, or even someone speaking loudly instead of speaking softly.
What are the signs of neurostorming?
Signs of neurostorming may vary from patient to patient, but common symptoms include:
- High fever or increased body temperature
- High blood pressure
- Elevated heart rate and respiratory rate
- Profuse sweating
- Abnormal muscle posturing or stiffness
- Fast, shallow breathing
- Agitation or restlessness
- Changes in consciousness or response levels
Storming typically happens in cycles and may last for minutes to hours. It often appears in patients with low Glasgow Coma Scale scores or those in a coma or minimally conscious state.
How is neurostorming treated?
Treating storming involves a combination of medical intervention and careful supportive care. Since the condition can be dangerous, treatment is typically handled by medical professionals in an ICU or brain injury rehabilitation setting.
Treatment strategies may include:
- Medications to reduce muscle contractions or regulate nervous system activity
- Cooling blankets or a cool cloth to manage temperature
- IV fluids with protein and water to support nutrition
- Adjusting the patient’s position gently to avoid triggering episodes
- Creating a calm, low-stimulation environment
- Encouraging caregivers to use a soft voice and avoid sudden movements
Long-term care may also address side effects like weight loss or increased metabolism, which are common due to the stress on the central nervous system.
Can storming after a brain injury be permanent?
Neurostorming is usually temporary, but the effects can be exhausting for both patients and caregivers. Most cases improve over time with the right brain injury care, especially once the brain begins to heal and the autonomic nervous system regains balance.
However, the emotional toll is real. Many families feel helpless watching their loved one go through repeated episodes, unsure of how to help. A strong support team, both medical and legal, can make a huge difference.
Talk to a San Luis Obispo brain injury lawyer
If your loved one is experiencing neurostorming after a traumatic brain injury caused by someone else’s negligence, you may have grounds to pursue compensation. These cases often involve high medical costs, lost income, and long-term care needs.
At Ernst Law Group, our experienced lawyers have decades of experience helping families facing serious brain injuries. We work closely with experts to document the full impact of storming and other complications after TBI. Call (805) 541-0300 or contact us online for a free consultation. We’re here to help you get the support and resources you need.
