Jaw Injury: Headaches, Nausea, and Possible Concussion Symptoms

Q: Jaw Injury: Headaches, Nausea, and Possible Concussion Symptoms

Hello： Head trauma with the following medical history is usually more severe and requires further head CT examination： – Vomiting 2 times or more – Age over 65 years or under 2 years – Drug or alcohol overdose – Persistent severe diffuse headache – Loss of consciousness for more

Hit on the chin, headache, and nausea?

A few days ago, I bumped my chin against someone's shoulder while playing basketball.
There were no external injuries, but the impact was quite strong.
At the time, I did not lose consciousness or experience confusion.
However, afterward, I gradually started feeling dizzy and nauseous.
The symptoms worsened at night, and I began to experience ear pain and some tinnitus.
I also started having pain in the back of my head, and moving my neck causes discomfort.
I can't lift my head and have difficulty concentrating.
Is this a concussion? However, it has been quite a while, and I haven't seen a doctor yet.

A'e, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/11/03

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology

Hello: Head trauma with the following medical history is usually more severe and requires further head CT examination: – Vomiting 2 times or more – Age over 65 years or under 2 years – Drug or alcohol overdose – Persistent severe diffuse headache – Loss of consciousness for more than 30 minutes – Dangerous mechanism 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 trauma – History of cranial surgery You do not seem to have any of the above medical history.
As for your dizziness symptoms, it may be considered that it is caused by benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), which can be alleviated through the Epley maneuver (Dix-Hallpike maneuver).
However, the process of performing the maneuver often exacerbates the dizziness for the patient.
Repeatedly performing it several times can help reposition the otoliths using gravity, after which the dizziness will resolve.
It is important to note that after repositioning, the patient should avoid lying flat for one day and must use several pillows to elevate the head while sleeping.
It is recommended to seek assistance from an otolaryngologist.
Wishing you good health and peace.
Dr.
Tao, Neurology, cares about you.

Reply Date: 2017/11/03

More Info

It sounds like you are experiencing a range of concerning symptoms following a significant impact to your jaw during a basketball game. Based on your description, it is possible that you may be dealing with a concussion or post-concussion syndrome, especially given the onset of headaches, nausea, dizziness, and neck discomfort.
Understanding Concussions and Symptoms:
A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury (TBI) that occurs when the brain is jolted or shaken inside the skull, often due to a blow to the head or body. Symptoms can vary widely and may not appear immediately after the injury. Common symptoms include headaches, dizziness, nausea, balance problems, sensitivity to light or noise, and cognitive difficulties such as trouble concentrating or remembering. In your case, the pain in your neck and the ear symptoms, including tinnitus (ringing in the ears), could also be linked to the impact and subsequent muscle strain or nerve irritation.

The Importance of Medical Evaluation:
Given that your symptoms have persisted for several days, it is crucial to seek medical attention. A healthcare professional can perform a thorough evaluation, which may include a neurological examination and possibly imaging studies like a CT scan or MRI to rule out more serious injuries such as skull fractures or bleeding in the brain. Delaying medical evaluation can lead to complications, especially if there is an underlying issue that requires treatment.

Potential Treatment Options:
If a concussion is diagnosed, treatment typically involves rest and gradual return to normal activities. This includes both physical and cognitive rest, meaning you should avoid activities that require intense concentration or physical exertion until you are cleared by a healthcare provider. Over-the-counter pain relievers may help manage headaches, but it’s essential to consult with a doctor before taking any medication, especially if you have other symptoms like nausea.

Recovery Timeline:
Recovery from a concussion varies from person to person. Some individuals may feel better within a few days, while others may take weeks or longer to fully recover. It is essential to listen to your body and not rush back into sports or strenuous activities until you are symptom-free and have received medical clearance.

Conclusion:
In summary, your symptoms following the jaw injury are concerning and warrant a medical evaluation. Concussions can have serious implications if not properly managed, and early intervention can significantly improve recovery outcomes. Please prioritize seeing a healthcare professional as soon as possible to ensure your health and safety.

Similar Q&A

Assessing Potential Concussion Symptoms After a Head Injury

Hello, Doctor. On November 9th, during gym class at 10 AM, a pickleball (about the size of a baseball, hollow plastic, and quite light) suddenly hit me on the back of my right head. It came from about 4 or 5 meters away. At the moment, I didn't feel much pain and thought i...

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology
Hello, Miss: You mentioned, "At the moment, I don't feel it will be very painful and I think it will get better soon, so I didn't go to the health room... The pain seems to radiate to my forehead." This symptom is more indicative of cervical myofascial inflamm...

Understanding Head Injuries: Symptoms, Risks, and Necessary Evaluations

Hello, Doctor. About four years ago, I was physically abused by a family member who struck me on the head and forcefully pulled my hair. At that time, the injured area swelled, and I experienced headaches and dizziness. However, due to threats from other family members, I was too...

Dr. Cai Zongzhang reply Neurology
Hello: A scalp swelling caused by a head impact does not necessarily indicate intracranial brain injury. If headaches occur more than 10 days a month, it is advisable to visit a neurology clinic.

Understanding Head Injuries: Symptoms, Risks, and When to Seek Help

I'm sorry to hear about your situation. Based on your description, it sounds like you may be experiencing symptoms that could be associated with a concussion, especially given the impact to your head and the subsequent headache, dizziness, and bruising near your temple. Co...

Dr. Zhao Shaoqing reply Neurosurgery
If there is a pre-existing concussion, it is advisable to rest. If symptoms such as vomiting or nausea worsen, seek an outpatient evaluation.

Understanding Dizziness and Nausea After Head Trauma: Signs of Concussion?

Hello doctor, a few days ago I was playing around with a friend and she hit my head several times with her palm. Shortly after, I started experiencing pain in the upper left side of my temple, about four fingers above it. I also feel dizzy and have the urge to vomit. Could this b...

Dr. Zhang Junwei reply Neurosurgery
This is not a concussion; it is at most a common symptom of head trauma. Usually, with proper medication and rest for two to three days, it can improve!