Neurological Changes in Psychosomatic Disorders

Hello, doctor~ Thank you~

Hello, I am a person with a neurosis and would like to ask some questions.
Thank you.

1.
Since I became ill, my cognitive abilities have significantly declined.
Is there any change in the brain for people like us (such as degeneration...)?
2.
The human brain can be divided into two hemispheres.
If one hemisphere is used more frequently or becomes particularly developed, does it grow larger and compress the other hemisphere, thereby affecting it? Or does frequent use of one side, like the left, primarily impact the right side?
3.
If a person's IQ increases, does the head also correspondingly grow larger? Is it possible that this is happening now, or does it only increase the brain's folds? However, the brain is limited by the skull...
I really don't understand.
Thank you for your response, doctor!

A-Yao, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/05/13

Dr. Chen Changmu reply Neurosurgery

Most patients with neuroses do not exhibit structural abnormalities in the brain.
Cognitive impairment may be related to the medications used, as long-term use can lead to further brain development without causing enlargement or compression of the opposite side of the brain.
Increases in IQ are attributed to learning, and the head does not proportionally enlarge; the number of gyri may increase with age and learning.

Reply Date: 2004/05/13

More Info

Understanding neurological changes in psychosomatic disorders can be complex, as it involves the interplay between psychological and physiological factors. Let's address your questions one by one.

1. Neurological Changes in Psychosomatic Disorders: It's important to note that while psychosomatic disorders can significantly affect mental functioning and perception, they do not typically lead to structural changes in the brain. The cognitive decline you may be experiencing could be related to various factors, including the psychological stress associated with your condition, the side effects of medications, or even lifestyle changes that accompany mental health issues. Chronic stress and anxiety can lead to neurochemical changes that affect mood and cognition, but these changes do not necessarily equate to brain degeneration. Instead, they may reflect a temporary alteration in how your brain processes information and manages emotions.

2. Lateralization of Brain Function: The human brain is divided into two hemispheres, each responsible for different functions. The left hemisphere is often associated with logical reasoning and analytical tasks, while the right hemisphere is linked to creativity and emotional processing. However, the idea that one hemisphere can become "overdeveloped" to the point of compressing the other is a misconception. The brain is a highly adaptable organ, and while certain areas may become more active with use, this does not lead to physical enlargement or pressure on adjacent areas. Instead, increased activity in one hemisphere can enhance connectivity and efficiency without causing harm to the other side.
3. Intelligence and Brain Size: The relationship between intelligence (often measured as IQ) and brain size is not straightforward. While some studies suggest a correlation between larger brain volume and higher intelligence, this does not mean that increasing brain size directly results in higher IQ. Instead, intelligence is more closely related to the complexity of neural connections and the efficiency of information processing. The brain's surface area, particularly the number of folds (gyri and sulci), can increase with learning and experience, but this does not necessarily mean that the physical size of the brain will change significantly. The skull does limit the brain's expansion, but neuroplasticity allows for functional changes in how the brain operates, even within the confines of its physical structure.

In summary, while psychosomatic disorders can lead to significant changes in how we think and feel, they do not typically cause structural brain changes. Cognitive difficulties may arise from the psychological burden of the disorder, medication side effects, or lifestyle factors. The brain's lateralization does not lead to one side compressing the other, and while intelligence may correlate with brain size to some extent, it is more about the efficiency and connectivity of neural pathways than sheer volume. If you have concerns about cognitive changes or the effects of your condition, it is crucial to discuss these with a healthcare professional who can provide tailored advice and support.

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