How the gut bacteria-brain connection may relate to long-term brain decline after head injury

The incidence and severity of traumatic brain injury (TBI) have been associated with an increased susceptibility to developing neurodegenerative disorders.

• Survivors of TBI often report gastrointestinal complaints.
• Animal studies have demonstrated gastrointestinal dysfunction and imbalances in gut bacteria following injury.
• Autonomic dysregulation and chronic inflammation may drive gastrointestinal issues after TBI.
• The microbiota-gut-brain axis could play a role in the development of neurodegenerative diseases following TBI.

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