Post-Car Accident Amnesia: When to Seek Medical Attention?

Transient amnesia following a car accident?

On July 12, I was involved in a motorcycle accident where my head hit the ground (I was wearing a helmet).
I lost consciousness for a few seconds but quickly got back up.
When I regained consciousness, I had no memory of the accident, but I had no obvious external injuries and did not seek medical attention at the time, returning home instead.
Since then, I have been experiencing dizziness, but there has been no vomiting.
In the morning, I noticed redness and swelling in my eye, which subsided a few hours later.
Should I seek medical attention for this? Which specialty should I consult? If a CT scan is necessary, will it be out-of-pocket?

Duo, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/07/13

Dr. Zhang Junwei reply Neurosurgery

For a concussion, please schedule an appointment with the neurosurgery outpatient clinic.
A CT scan is covered by health insurance, but it must meet the criteria for CT imaging indications.

Reply Date: 2016/07/13

More Info

After a car accident, especially one that involves a head impact, it is crucial to monitor your symptoms closely. In your case, experiencing amnesia about the event, even if you were wearing a helmet, is a significant indicator that you should seek medical attention. The fact that you lost consciousness for a few seconds and have ongoing symptoms such as dizziness warrants a thorough evaluation.

When to Seek Medical Attention
1. Loss of Consciousness: Even brief loss of consciousness can indicate a concussion or other brain injury. This is particularly concerning if it is accompanied by amnesia regarding the event.

2. Persistent Symptoms: Ongoing dizziness, headaches, or any changes in vision or balance should not be ignored. These symptoms can indicate a concussion or other neurological issues.

3. Physical Signs: The redness and swelling you mentioned upon waking could be a sign of a more serious injury, even if there are no visible external injuries.
4. Changes in Mental Status: If you experience confusion, difficulty concentrating, or any changes in your mood or behavior, these are also signs that you should seek medical help.

Recommended Actions
- Visit a Healthcare Provider: Given your symptoms, it is advisable to see a healthcare provider as soon as possible. You can start by visiting your primary care physician or an urgent care center. If you have access to a neurologist, that would be ideal, as they specialize in conditions related to the brain and nervous system.

- Diagnostic Imaging: A CT scan may be necessary to rule out any internal injuries or bleeding in the brain. In many healthcare systems, this imaging may be covered by insurance, but it can depend on your specific plan. If you are concerned about costs, it is best to discuss this with the medical staff beforehand.

- Emergency Room: If your symptoms worsen or if you develop new symptoms such as severe headaches, vomiting, or difficulty speaking, you should go to the emergency room immediately.

Conclusion
In summary, your symptoms following the car accident suggest that you should seek medical attention promptly. Do not wait for symptoms to worsen, as early intervention can be crucial in preventing further complications. Make sure to communicate all your symptoms clearly to the healthcare provider, including the details of the accident and your current condition. This will help them assess your situation more effectively and determine the appropriate course of action.

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