Symptoms After Head Trauma: Dizziness, Nausea, and Fatigue

Dizziness, nausea, and generalized weakness?

Hello, Doctor.
On July 24th (Thursday), I hit the top of my head very hard.
At that moment, I felt pain and a sensation of nasal congestion, but it improved shortly after.
However, on July 27th (Sunday), after waking up from a nap, I felt dizzy for a while.
Now, as of August 3rd (Thursday), I experience dizziness frequently, sometimes accompanied by nausea, brief sharp pains in my head, and a heavy sensation in my eyelids that makes me want to close my eyes and sleep.
I also feel a persistent heaviness in my nasal bridge and a general lack of energy and weakness.
P.S.
I have checked my blood pressure once, and it was normal.
What could these symptoms indicate? Thank you.

Juan, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/08/03

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology

Hello, based on your description, generally speaking, if there is no loss of consciousness, the use of anticoagulants, or obvious localized hematomas, head trauma symptoms are mostly mild.
The frequent occurrence of dizziness may have the following possible causes: 1.
Reduced peripheral vascular tone due to neural reflexes, leading to blood pooling in peripheral tissues and insufficient blood flow to the brain.
2.
Hypotension caused by changes in posture, such as when suddenly standing up or just getting out of bed.
Conditions like autonomic dysfunction and cardiovascular medications may contribute to this situation.
3.
Insufficient blood flow in localized brain vessels.
4.
Issues related to the blood itself, such as low blood pressure or hypoglycemia.
It is recommended that you consult a neurologist for discussion, examination, and treatment.
Wishing you good health and peace.
Sincerely, the Neurology Department.

Reply Date: 2017/08/03

More Info

After experiencing a significant head trauma, such as the one you described on July 24, it is essential to understand the potential symptoms and their implications. The symptoms you are currently experiencing—dizziness, nausea, fatigue, a heavy feeling in your eyelids, and occasional sharp pain in your head—are concerning and warrant further evaluation.

Head trauma can lead to a variety of symptoms, some of which may not appear immediately. In your case, the initial pain and sensation of nasal congestion you felt after the impact could indicate a mild concussion or other forms of head injury. The delayed onset of symptoms, such as dizziness and nausea, is not uncommon and can be associated with post-concussion syndrome, which can occur after a concussion and may last for weeks or even months.

Dizziness can arise from several factors related to head trauma. It may be due to vestibular dysfunction, which affects balance, or it could be related to changes in the brain's processing of sensory information. Nausea is also a common symptom following head injuries, often linked to the body's response to trauma and the brain's altered state. The heaviness in your eyelids and persistent fatigue may suggest that your body is still recovering from the trauma, as head injuries can lead to increased fatigue and a need for more rest.

Given that you have experienced these symptoms for an extended period, it is crucial to seek medical attention. A healthcare professional, particularly a neurologist, can conduct a thorough examination, which may include imaging studies like a CT scan or MRI to rule out any serious complications such as intracranial bleeding or swelling. They may also assess your neurological function to ensure that there are no significant deficits.

In the meantime, it is advisable to rest and avoid activities that could exacerbate your symptoms, such as strenuous exercise or tasks that require intense concentration. Staying hydrated and maintaining a balanced diet can also support your recovery. If your symptoms worsen or if you experience new symptoms such as severe headaches, confusion, or changes in vision, you should seek immediate medical attention.

In summary, the symptoms you are experiencing after your head injury could be indicative of a concussion or post-concussion syndrome. It is essential to consult a healthcare provider for a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate management. Early intervention can help mitigate long-term effects and facilitate a smoother recovery process.

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