Head and Neck Issues: Post-Injury Symptoms and Concerns

Head and neck issues

Hello, Doctor Gao: I have a few questions to ask.
Over two years ago, while moving something under the stairs, I suddenly forgot and stood up, hitting the top center of my head against the corner of a steel beam.
At that moment, I saw stars, had a headache, and felt dizzy.
After rubbing my head for a few minutes, I continued working.
Aside from the impact point being painful for a few days, I didn't have any other symptoms.
However, a month later, I noticed a slight indentation in the skull at the impact site.
Is this indentation concerning?
Secondly, four years ago, I was hit by a car while riding my motorcycle and was thrown into the middle of the road.
I was taken to the hospital and diagnosed with a concussion, staying for three days before being discharged.
Over the past year, I have frequently experienced headaches accompanied by dizziness.
The pain feels like someone is pressing down on the top of my head, creating a very uncomfortable sensation of pressure.
The dizziness feels like my head is heavy and my legs are light, causing an unstable gait.
Could these symptoms be residual effects from those two accidents?
Additionally, my arms, legs, and chest muscles occasionally twitch, and I can clearly see the muscle movements.
Sometimes, while I am sound asleep, my entire leg will suddenly jerk, waking me up.
Occasionally, I also experience sudden numbness in the back of my head and legs for a few seconds.
What could be causing these symptoms? Do I need to seek medical attention?
I have seen a neurologist for my headaches and dizziness, and they prescribed acetaminophen and anti-dizziness medication, which have provided some relief.
Another symptom I have is that whenever I turn my neck up and down or side to side, it makes a cracking sound, similar to the sound of cracking knuckles.
Is there any abnormality or injury in my cervical spine? Should I schedule an appointment with a neurologist?
I apologize for the many questions, but I am quite troubled.
Thank you very much for your help!

Mr. Wang, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/05/29

Dr. Gao Chunde reply Neurology

If the head examination is normal, some of your symptoms may be indicative of tension-type headaches, but they could also suggest cervical spine issues.
Given the car accident and the relatively mild symptoms in your limbs and chest muscles, it would be advisable to inform your attending physician.
They can conduct a preliminary neurological examination to check for any potential cervical nerve reflex abnormalities, and may consider further testing.
If their neurological examination is normal, you can feel more reassured.

Reply Date: 2016/05/29

More Info

Dear Patient,
Thank you for reaching out with your concerns regarding your head and neck issues following your past injuries. It’s understandable to feel anxious about symptoms that arise after such incidents, and I’m here to provide some clarity.

Firstly, regarding the dent in your skull from the injury two years ago, it’s important to note that a slight depression in the skull can occur after a significant impact. This could be due to localized bone remodeling or a minor fracture that has healed improperly. While a small dent may not pose an immediate risk, it is advisable to have it evaluated by a healthcare professional, particularly a neurologist or neurosurgeon, to ensure there are no underlying complications.

Your experience of headaches and dizziness following the car accident, where you sustained a concussion, is also significant. Post-concussion syndrome can manifest as persistent headaches, dizziness, and cognitive difficulties long after the initial injury. The sensation of pressure on your head and the feeling of being unsteady can be attributed to this syndrome. It’s crucial to monitor these symptoms, as they can sometimes indicate more serious conditions, such as post-traumatic migraines or vestibular dysfunction.

The muscle twitching you described in your limbs and the occasional leg jerks during sleep could be related to several factors. These may include stress, fatigue, or even a neurological condition. While benign muscle twitches are common and often harmless, if they are frequent or accompanied by other concerning symptoms, it would be wise to consult a neurologist for further evaluation.

The popping sounds in your neck when you move it can be attributed to various factors, including joint movement, gas bubbles in the synovial fluid, or even tight muscles. While this is often benign, if accompanied by pain, stiffness, or neurological symptoms, it warrants further investigation. A physical examination and possibly imaging studies, such as an MRI, could help determine if there are any underlying issues with your cervical spine.

Given your history of head trauma and the persistence of your symptoms, I recommend that you continue to follow up with a neurologist. They can provide a comprehensive assessment, including neurological examinations and possibly imaging studies, to rule out any serious conditions. Additionally, they can help manage your symptoms with appropriate medications and therapies.

In summary, while some of your symptoms may be related to the injuries you sustained, it’s essential to have a thorough evaluation to ensure that there are no serious underlying issues. Please do not hesitate to seek medical attention, as early intervention can often lead to better outcomes.

Take care, and I hope you find relief from your symptoms soon.

Best regards.

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