Should You See a Doctor After a Head Injury from a Fall? - Neurology

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After experiencing a head injury, especially one that involves a fall and symptoms such as dizziness and visual disturbances, it is crucial to seek medical attention. Head injuries can lead to various complications, some of which may not be immediately apparent. Here’s a breakdown of why you should consider seeing a doctor after your incident.


Immediate Symptoms and Concerns
1. Dizziness and Double Vision: The symptoms you are experiencing—dizziness and double vision—are concerning. These can be indicative of a concussion or other forms of traumatic brain injury (TBI). Concussions can occur even without a direct impact to the head, as the brain can be jolted within the skull during a fall.

2. Visible Injury: The presence of a red wound on the back of your head suggests that there was some degree of trauma. While superficial injuries may seem minor, they can sometimes be associated with more serious underlying issues, such as contusions or lacerations to the brain.

3. Delayed Symptoms: Symptoms of serious conditions like intracranial hemorrhage (bleeding within the skull) may not appear immediately. They can develop hours or even days after the injury. Therefore, monitoring your symptoms closely is essential.


Recommendations for Medical Evaluation
Given your symptoms, it is advisable to seek medical evaluation. Here are some reasons why:
- Assessment of Neurological Function: A healthcare professional can perform a neurological examination to assess your cognitive function, coordination, and reflexes. This is crucial in determining the extent of your injury.

- Imaging Studies: Depending on the findings from your examination, the doctor may recommend imaging studies such as a CT scan or MRI to rule out any serious injuries like fractures or bleeding in the brain.

- Monitoring for Complications: Medical professionals can provide guidance on what symptoms to watch for in the coming days. This includes worsening headaches, persistent dizziness, nausea, or any changes in consciousness.


When to Seek Immediate Care
You should seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following:
- Worsening headache or persistent headache that does not improve with over-the-counter pain relief.

- Increased confusion, difficulty waking up, or unusual behavior.

- Repeated vomiting or nausea.

- Seizures or convulsions.

- Weakness or numbness in any part of your body.


Conclusion
In summary, while it may be tempting to wait and see if your symptoms improve, the potential risks associated with head injuries warrant a proactive approach. Given your current symptoms of dizziness and visual disturbances, it is advisable to see a doctor as soon as possible. Early intervention can help prevent complications and ensure that you receive the appropriate care for your recovery. Remember, it’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to head injuries.