Should You Seek Medical Attention After a Fall from Height?

Falling from a height of one and a half stories?

I went to school to pick something up, but the door was locked.
After I got what I needed, I couldn't open the door, so I had to jump down.
I intended to prepare myself before jumping, but I lost my footing and fell.
My body hit the ground first, and then I fell backward, hitting the back of my head on a table.
Initially, it was very painful, and after resting for a bit, I felt dizzy and a bit nauseous, but my appetite hasn't changed.
Should I seek medical attention for this?

Yiyas, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/05/02

Dr. Lai Zhaokang reply Neurosurgery

Hello, if there is a change in consciousness, seizures, or limb weakness following a head injury, immediate medical attention is required.
If the symptoms are limited to dizziness and nausea, you can observe for 2-3 days.
If there is no improvement, you should seek medical care.
Please have a physician evaluate whether further examination or medication is necessary.
Wishing you well.

Reply Date: 2017/05/02

More Info

After a fall from a height, especially one that results in a head injury, it is crucial to seek medical attention. The symptoms you describe—pain at the impact site, dizziness, and nausea—are concerning and warrant a thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional. Here’s why it’s important to get checked out and what you should consider:
1. Risk of Concussion: Falls that involve a blow to the head can lead to concussions, which are a type of traumatic brain injury. Symptoms of a concussion can include headache, confusion, dizziness, nausea, and balance problems. Even if you feel okay initially, symptoms can develop or worsen over time.

2. Potential for Serious Injury: Beyond concussions, falls can cause other serious injuries, such as skull fractures or intracranial hemorrhages (bleeding within the skull). These conditions can be life-threatening and may not present immediate symptoms. Therefore, it is essential to have a medical professional assess your condition.

3. Neurological Assessment: A healthcare provider will likely perform a neurological examination to check your cognitive function, coordination, and reflexes. They may also recommend imaging studies, such as a CT scan, to rule out any structural damage to the brain.

4. Monitoring Symptoms: If you experience worsening symptoms, such as increased headache, persistent nausea, vomiting, confusion, difficulty waking up, or any changes in vision, these are red flags that require immediate medical attention.

5. Follow-Up Care: If you are diagnosed with a concussion or any other injury, follow-up care is essential. This may include rest, avoiding physical exertion, and gradually returning to normal activities as advised by your healthcare provider.

6. When to Seek Emergency Care: If you experience any of the following symptoms after your fall, seek emergency medical care immediately:
- Severe headache that does not go away
- Repeated vomiting
- Loss of consciousness
- Seizures
- Weakness or numbness in the arms or legs
- Slurred speech or difficulty speaking
- Confusion or unusual behavior
In summary, given your symptoms of dizziness and nausea following a fall, it is advisable to seek medical attention. A healthcare professional can provide a proper assessment and ensure that any potential injuries are addressed promptly. Remember, it’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to head injuries.

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