Can Spinal cord injury cause cognitive injuries?

Question

Basically I have a very large syrinx as a result of injury. I know that at worst I can end up a quadrapligic (Paralysis basically from the neck down). Am I also in danger of cognitive affects?
How do you know your answer?

Answer 1

A syrinx is a fluid filled cavity in the spinal cord. Therefore, it cannot cause cognitive deficits directly. Cognitive function is controlled by the cerebrum. At the worse case scenario, if your syrinx is in your brainstem, you could be subject to symptoms such as nystagmus (a rapid movement of the eye), dizziness, difficulty swallowing or talking or difficulty breathing in addition to the risk of paralysis, but your cognitive functions would remain intact. If, however, you went into respiratory failure and you were not ventilated for several minutes, lack of oxygen to the brain could cause cognitive dysfunction...but this would be a direct result of the anoxic encephalopathy, not directly as a cause of the synrix.

If, however, your syrinx is located below the brainstem, you are at essentially no risk for cognitive dysfunctions. Most of the them are located in the neck...not the brainstem.

My best wishes for you to remain healthy.

Answer 2

I have to agree with the dentist. You should see a professional about your injury. I am currently getting a Master's degree in Education and my cohort group is starting a class called Physiology of Learning. We've talked about cognitive development and brain injuries, but no one is really an "expert."

Answer 3

HELLO,
UNLESS SOMEONE HERE IS A NEUROLOGIST,VERY UNLIKELY, THE BEST THING IS TO SEE ONE AND GET YOUR QUESTION ANSWERED.