The health effects of trauma

DEAR DR. ROACH>> I am a 63-year-old male with wellcontrolled coronary artery disease. I also have chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy. Last June, I was in a horrific automobile accident where a person hit me head-on. It took an hour for responders to extract me from my car. I was in intensive care for eight days, suffering from multiple fractures and requiring several surgeries, with more to come. The day before my second surgery, my father passed away unexpectedly. Naturally,

I temporarily postponed the surgery. Thirtytwo days after my father’s passing, my mother passed away, also unexpectedly. During the wake for my mother, a wellwisher told me that due to the stress and trauma as well as my underlying medical conditions, my life will be shortened. I am having difficulty, but I am dealing with everything. I could find no information about this. Have you ever heard of this?

— D.F.P.

ANSWER>> I am sorry to hear about your difficulties and wish you a steady recovery.

It amazes me what even well-meaning people can say. This person’s intentions may have been good, but it was neither wise nor kind to say it.

The research shows that life-changing events — such as death of a parent or spouse, serious accident or injury, or other similarly traumatic event — do indeed raise the risk of mortality in the near term. More than one event has an even greater effect. However, the excess mortality risk is mostly in the year following the stressful life events. In other words, if you can get through the surgeries and this next year after your parent’s passing, there is not likely to be long-term risk.

Sometimes severe trauma and surgeries can affect a person’s mobility. Depression and post-traumatic stress disorder are other issues you are at risk for. It’s particularly important for you to exercise as best you can with your injuries, be very aware of your mental health and get professional help if needed.

Contact Dr. Roach at ToYourGoodHealth@med. cornell.edu.