Is It Normal to Feel Pain After a Forehead Injury from a Falling Object?

Hit in the forehead by a small stone?

Three days ago, I was hit on the right side of my forehead near the hairline by a small stone that fell from above.
However, there has been no swelling or bruising, and no bleeding in the past few days.
Currently, I only feel a heaviness in the right side of my back head and forehead, and I occasionally experience sharp pain.
Is this normal? I have been applying ice to the affected area for several days.
Should I seek medical evaluation? Is an X-ray necessary? I read online that if there are no significant issues, a brain scan may not be needed.

nan, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/08/03

Dr. Zhang Junwei reply Neurosurgery

If you continue to experience headaches and dizziness, it is recommended to schedule an appointment with a neurosurgeon for evaluation.

Reply Date: 2016/08/03

More Info

Experiencing pain after a forehead injury, even if there is no visible swelling, bruising, or bleeding, can be concerning. In your case, you mentioned that you were struck by a small stone on the right side of your forehead, and now you are feeling heaviness and occasional sharp pain in both the right side of your head and forehead.
First and foremost, it is important to understand that the brain and surrounding tissues can be sensitive to trauma, even if the injury appears minor on the surface. The symptoms you are experiencing—heaviness and intermittent sharp pain—could be a result of several factors, including:
1. Soft Tissue Injury: Even without visible bruising or swelling, the impact could have caused a strain or contusion in the soft tissues of the forehead or scalp. This can lead to discomfort and a feeling of heaviness.

2. Referred Pain: Pain in one area of the head can sometimes be referred from another area. For instance, tension in the neck or upper back can manifest as headaches or pain in the forehead.

3. Post-Traumatic Headache: It’s not uncommon for individuals to experience headaches after a head injury. These can vary in intensity and may be accompanied by other symptoms such as dizziness or sensitivity to light.

4. Concussion Symptoms: While you may not have experienced loss of consciousness or other classic concussion symptoms, it’s still possible to have a mild concussion. Symptoms can include headache, confusion, dizziness, and changes in mood or sleep patterns.

Given that you have been applying ice to the area and have not noticed any significant external symptoms, it is a positive sign. However, the presence of persistent pain, especially if it worsens or is accompanied by other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, confusion, or visual disturbances, warrants further evaluation.

Recommendations:
1. Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms. If the pain intensifies, or if you develop new symptoms such as confusion, severe headache, or changes in vision, seek medical attention immediately.

2. Consult a Healthcare Provider: Since you are experiencing ongoing pain, it would be wise to consult a healthcare provider. They may recommend a physical examination and possibly imaging studies, such as an X-ray or CT scan, to rule out any underlying issues, such as a fracture or more serious brain injury.

3. Rest and Ice: Continue to rest and apply ice to the affected area to help reduce any potential inflammation.

4. Avoid Strenuous Activities: Until you have been evaluated by a healthcare professional, it is advisable to avoid activities that could exacerbate your symptoms or put you at risk for further injury.

5. Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can help manage discomfort, but be sure to follow the recommended dosages and consult with a healthcare provider if you have any contraindications.

In conclusion, while some discomfort after a minor head injury can be normal, persistent or worsening symptoms should not be ignored. It is always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to head injuries, so seeking medical advice is a prudent step.

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