Long-Term Effects of Electrical Burns on Neurological Health

Electrical burn

Dear Dr.
Lin,
I would like to ask about my condition.
I was electrocuted on the left temple with 380 volts, and the current exited through the right temple.
After two months of treatment, the left side has a wound measuring 10cm by 6cm deep enough to see the bone, while the right side has a wound measuring 3cm by 2cm with a depth of about 1cm.
It has now been approximately one year since the incident, and I have noticed a significant decline in my memory and some signs of hearing loss.
Could these symptoms be residual effects from the injury? Additionally, I have asked multiple physicians but have not received a definitive answer regarding whether the large wound area on the left side of my face has caused atrophy due to nerve damage during rehabilitation.

Awei, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2007/08/15

Dr. Lin Zijing reply Neurology

Hello, the extent of damage from electrical burns typically occurs in the area through which the current passes, specifically from the entry point to the exit point of the current.
The human nervous system transmits signals via microcurrents, so when a small current travels through the nerves, it does not cause damage; rather, it is the other tissues with higher resistance that are affected.
However, even nerves cannot withstand excessive current energy, leading to burn symptoms.
Therefore, the symptoms you described could potentially be sequelae; the facial nerve controls the movement of all facial muscles, and the larger the area of injury, the more likely it is to involve damage to the facial nerve.
Damage to the motor nerves can result in atrophy of the muscles they innervate.

Reply Date: 2007/08/15

More Info

Electrical burns, particularly those caused by high voltage, can have significant and long-lasting effects on neurological health. The symptoms you are experiencing, such as memory decline and hearing loss, may indeed be related to the electrical injury you sustained.
When electrical current passes through the body, it can cause damage not only to the skin and underlying tissues but also to the nervous system. The severity of the injury often depends on several factors, including the voltage, the duration of exposure, and the pathway the current takes through the body. In your case, with a 380V electrical shock, the potential for serious neurological damage is considerable.

Neurological Effects of Electrical Burns
1. Direct Nerve Damage: Electrical burns can directly damage peripheral nerves, leading to symptoms such as numbness, tingling, and weakness in the affected areas. If the current traveled through areas of the brain or cranial nerves, it could potentially affect cognitive functions, including memory and auditory processing.

2. Cerebral Injury: High-voltage injuries can lead to secondary effects such as cerebral edema (swelling of the brain), which can manifest as cognitive deficits, including memory loss. The brain's ability to process information may be compromised due to the trauma inflicted by the electrical current.

3. Psychological Impact: Experiencing a traumatic event such as an electrical burn can lead to psychological effects, including anxiety and depression, which can further impact cognitive functions and memory.

4. Hearing Loss: The auditory system can also be affected by electrical injuries, particularly if the current impacted areas near the ear or brain regions responsible for hearing. Damage to the auditory pathways can lead to hearing loss or tinnitus (ringing in the ears).

Facial Atrophy and Nerve Damage
Regarding your concern about facial atrophy on the left side, it is possible that the extensive tissue damage and subsequent healing process could lead to muscle atrophy. When nerves are damaged, the muscles they innervate may not receive adequate signals to contract, leading to weakness and atrophy over time.
1. Nerve Regeneration: Nerves can regenerate, but this process can be slow and may not always restore full function. The extent of recovery often depends on the severity of the nerve injury and the time elapsed since the injury.

2. Rehabilitation: Engaging in physical therapy and rehabilitation can help improve muscle strength and function. Techniques such as electrical stimulation therapy may also be beneficial in promoting nerve regeneration and muscle re-innervation.

3. Monitoring and Follow-Up: It is crucial to have regular follow-ups with healthcare providers who specialize in nerve injuries and rehabilitation. They can assess the extent of nerve damage and provide tailored treatment plans to address your specific needs.

Conclusion
In summary, the neurological symptoms you are experiencing, including memory decline and hearing loss, could be attributed to the electrical injury you sustained. The potential for nerve damage and subsequent atrophy in the facial muscles is also a concern, particularly given the extent of your injuries. It is essential to continue seeking medical advice and rehabilitation to address these issues effectively.
If you have not already done so, consider consulting with a neurologist or a specialist in electrical injuries who can provide a comprehensive evaluation and recommend appropriate interventions. Your recovery journey may be complex, but with the right support and treatment, improvements are possible.

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