Symptoms After Head Injury: What to Expect in 72 Hours - Neurosurgery

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After a head injury, particularly one caused by an object falling from a height, it is crucial to monitor symptoms closely, especially within the first 72 hours. The symptoms you are experiencing—initial mild pain, followed by swelling, and now dizziness and a heavy feeling in your head—are concerning and warrant immediate medical attention.


Understanding Your Symptoms
1. Initial Pain and Swelling: The initial pain you felt was likely due to soft tissue injury or a mild contusion. Swelling is a common response to injury as the body sends fluids to the affected area to promote healing. This is a normal inflammatory response.

2. Dizziness and Heaviness: The onset of dizziness and a heavy feeling in your head after a couple of days is particularly concerning. These symptoms can indicate several potential issues:
- Concussion: This is a type of traumatic brain injury that can occur even if you did not lose consciousness. Symptoms can develop hours or even days after the injury and may include headaches, dizziness, confusion, and balance issues.

- Intracranial Hemorrhage: This is a more serious condition where bleeding occurs within the skull. It can happen after a head injury and may not present symptoms immediately. The fact that you are experiencing dizziness and instability could suggest that there might be some bleeding or swelling affecting your brain.

- Post-Traumatic Headaches: These can occur after a head injury and may be accompanied by other symptoms like dizziness.


Importance of Medical Evaluation
Given that your symptoms have progressed to include dizziness and a feeling of heaviness in your head, it is essential to seek medical evaluation as soon as possible. A healthcare professional may recommend imaging studies, such as a CT scan or MRI, to rule out serious complications like a concussion or intracranial bleeding.


What to Expect in the Hospital
When you visit a healthcare provider, they will likely perform a neurological examination to assess your cognitive function, coordination, and balance. Depending on their findings, they may order imaging tests to check for any structural damage to the brain or skull.


Recovery and Monitoring
If you are diagnosed with a concussion or another type of head injury, the recovery process typically involves:
- Rest: Both physical and cognitive rest are crucial. Avoid activities that require concentration, such as reading or using screens, until cleared by a doctor.

- Hydration and Nutrition: Staying hydrated and maintaining a balanced diet can support recovery.

- Gradual Return to Activities: Once symptoms improve, a gradual return to normal activities is recommended, under the guidance of a healthcare provider.


Conclusion
In summary, your symptoms after the head injury are concerning, especially the dizziness and heavy feeling in your head. It is critical to seek medical attention promptly to rule out any serious complications. Early intervention can significantly improve outcomes and ensure a safe recovery. Please prioritize your health and visit a healthcare provider as soon as possible.