[Mark in Idaho]

On a previous thread and post, I mentioned that concussions can have delayed symptoms because the injured brain cells try to continue but finally give up and die. A question was asked about whether the dead brain cells regenerate.

Brain cells do not regenerate. There are some controversial researchers who claim that brain cells do but even if they do, it is a very slow and minimal process. Axons and dendrites, the links between brain cells (neurons) do continue to grow. Many concussions cause diffuse axonal damage. This may require new axons to grow. The problem is that axon growth and reconnection is a very slow and haphazard process. The axons do not know where to reconnect so they just make contact with a dendrite. If the dendrite recognizes the axon as an appropriate connection, the connection is made. If not, the axon is refused, it pulls away and looks elsewhere.

Axons and dendrites need myelin to grow. Myelin needs proper nutrition to grow and heal. That is the primary valuer of brain nutrition.

Neuroplasticity tries to suggest neuro generation or regeneration but that is a stretch.

My concern is that lack of neuronal regeneration does not have the dire consequences that it may suggest. The brain is very adaptable. We can make many changes to enhance strong functions and minimize reliance on weak functions.

There is no reason for despair as we all have many opportunities to work around our limitations. If we lose the ability to participate in a favorite activity, we still have access to other activities.

I hope others can tell us of the ways they have rebuilt their lives despite their limitations.

My best to you all.