Head Injury from Volleyball: Symptoms and Recovery

Q: Head Injury from Volleyball: Symptoms and Recovery

Hello： For head trauma, if the following conditions or medical history are present, more serious injuries should be considered, such as： – Vomiting two or more times – Drug or alcohol overdose – Persistent severe diffuse headache – Loss of consciousness for more than 30 minutes –

I got hit on the head by a volleyball during gym class?

On May 2nd, during physical education class while practicing volleyball at around 1 or 2 PM, I was hit on the right side of my head by someone else's spike.
I took a nap in the classroom around 3 PM and woke up at 5 PM feeling dizzy, having a headache, and experiencing weakness in my arms and legs.
However, when I visited a nearby clinic that evening, the doctor said that a concussion wouldn't cause such symptoms.
After getting some sleep, I feel much better, but my hands still feel very weak.
Are these symptoms normal? (I have diabetes and initially thought it was low blood sugar, but my blood sugar levels were normal.)

A Meng, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/05/03

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology

Hello: For head trauma, if the following conditions or medical history are present, more serious injuries should be considered, such as: – Vomiting two or more times – Drug or alcohol overdose – Persistent severe diffuse headache – Loss of consciousness for more than 30 minutes – Dangerous mechanisms of injury (e.g., pedestrian struck by a motor vehicle, passenger ejected from a vehicle, fall from a height greater than 1 meter or more than 5 stairs) – Coagulation disorders – Multiple traumas – History of craniotomy If you experience weakness in your hands, and if it is accompanied by sensory abnormalities, nerve compression should be considered.
Additionally, diabetic patients are more prone to peripheral neuropathy.
It is recommended that you consult a neurologist for evaluation and treatment.
Wishing you good health, safety, and happiness.
Best regards, Taoyuan Medical Center, Neurology Department.

Reply Date: 2017/05/03

More Info

Experiencing a head injury, especially from a sport like volleyball, can lead to a variety of symptoms that may be concerning. In your case, being struck on the right side of your head and subsequently experiencing dizziness, headaches, and weakness in your limbs raises several important considerations regarding your health and recovery.

First and foremost, it’s essential to understand that head injuries can lead to a condition known as a concussion, which is a type of traumatic brain injury. Symptoms of a concussion can vary widely and may include headaches, dizziness, confusion, balance issues, and even weakness in the limbs. The fact that you experienced dizziness and headaches after the incident is not uncommon and could indeed be indicative of a concussion.

The symptoms you described, particularly the weakness in your arms and legs, are concerning. While it’s possible that these symptoms could be related to the concussion, they could also indicate other underlying issues. Given your history of diabetes, it’s crucial to rule out any complications related to your blood sugar levels, even if your readings were normal. Sometimes, symptoms like weakness can be multifactorial, stemming from both the head injury and your diabetic condition.

In terms of recovery, it is generally advised to rest both physically and cognitively after a head injury. This means avoiding strenuous activities, including sports, and limiting activities that require significant concentration, such as using computers or reading. The brain needs time to heal, and pushing yourself too hard can exacerbate symptoms and prolong recovery.

You mentioned that you felt better after a nap, which is a positive sign, but it’s important to monitor your symptoms closely. If you continue to experience dizziness, headaches, or weakness, or if new symptoms arise, it is crucial to seek medical attention. A healthcare professional may recommend imaging studies, such as a CT scan or MRI, to rule out more serious injuries like bleeding in the brain.

In terms of when you can return to sports, the general guideline is to wait until you are symptom-free and have received clearance from a healthcare provider. This often involves a stepwise return-to-play protocol, where you gradually increase your activity level while monitoring for any recurrence of symptoms. It’s essential to prioritize your health and safety over returning to play too soon.

In summary, while some symptoms following a head injury can be normal, the combination of dizziness, headaches, and limb weakness should be taken seriously, especially in the context of your diabetes. Rest is critical, and you should seek further medical evaluation if symptoms persist or worsen. Always prioritize your health and consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and treatment options.

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