How Can Thalamic Dysfunction Be Detected?

Posted on Sat, 31 Mar 2018

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sat, 31 Mar 2018 Answered on

Wed, 17 May 2023 Last reviewed on

Question : What would be the best way of finding out if your Thalmus function of your brain was damaged? As a month ago I took taurine during a benzo taper and immediately within hours it gave me Neurological symptoms which I feel is brain damage as I can't sleep I have burning sensations on my legs I don't feel I can shut off. I know it's not a stroke but it's something and can the Thalmus heal after time?

Answered by Dr. Dr. Erion Spaho (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Probably not damaged thalamus.

Detailed Answer:

Hello,

If your thalamus was damaged, there should have been other syndromes and symptoms present such cognitive and memory issues, visual disturbances, weakness of the limbs, etc. besides burning sensation in legs.

Best way to evaluate if the thalamus was damaged or not is to get evaluated by a Neurologist, a brain MRI and evoked potentials (sensory, motor and visual).

So, if in doubt, get these examinations done.

My personal impression is that your symptoms relate to benzodiazepines withdrawal.

Hope you found the answer helpful.

Feel free to ask if you have further questions.

Regards,
Dr. Erion Spaho, Neurologist, Surgical

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Remy Koshy

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Erion Spaho (13 minutes later)

The MRI I have had an awaiting results, the MRI would only show structural not functional though?
Those are the somater sensory tests you advise?

The Taurine I took about 13grams off during the benzo taper and apparently it works the gabba a receptors so that would of sent me into further withdrawal.

It's more so concerning that my body won't shut off and there is weakness in my left calf muscle so I have a feeling it's something In the brain.

Benzo withdrawal can do these symptoms?

Answered by Dr. Dr. Erion Spaho (25 hours later)

Brief Answer:
A complete examination is necessary.

Detailed Answer:

Hi,

If any part of the thalamus was damaged, the MRI should give at least some information, but, it is true that functional damages mainly neurotransmitters imbalances are not shown by the MRI.

Evoked potentials evaluate the somatosensory pathways and motor pathways too, so, these tests may be helpful in your case.

Again, the basis for a correct diagnosis when it comes to neurological disorders is a thorough neurological examination followed by appropriate tests.

Hope this helps.

Take care.

Regards,
Dr. Erion Spaho, Neurologist, Surgical

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj