Head Injury Concerns: Symptoms and Risks

Head issues

On March 6th, I accidentally hit the top of my head while lying down.
I did not lose consciousness, nor did I have any swelling, but it was painful when pressed.
It improved after three days.
On March 10th, I experienced a headache, which was not severe, along with mild cold symptoms.
A few days later, I had dizziness and nausea, so I visited an ENT specialist who prescribed medication for the dizziness, which helped.
The headache has persisted until now, but it is not constant; it occurs mainly around the temples and the left posterior part of my head, and it is mild.
Could this indicate a risk of intracranial hemorrhage or a concussion? Is it possible that this is caused by stress? I am a bit worried.
If I consulted the wrong specialty, I apologize.
Thank you!

Niming, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/03/17

Dr. Xu Kaixi reply Surgery

Head trauma can often be accompanied by symptoms of a concussion.
Mild symptoms, such as slight dizziness and headaches lasting a few days, typically improve with adequate rest.
However, if symptoms recur or persist without improvement, it is advisable to visit the emergency department for further evaluation.

Reply Date: 2019/03/17

More Info

Head injuries can be concerning, and your symptoms warrant careful consideration. Based on your description, it seems you experienced a minor head trauma on March 6, followed by a series of symptoms including headache, dizziness, and nausea. While you did not lose consciousness or experience significant swelling, the development of headaches and other symptoms afterward raises some important points to discuss.

First, let’s address the possibility of a concussion or mild traumatic brain injury (TBI). A concussion can occur even without a loss of consciousness or visible swelling. Symptoms can include headaches, dizziness, nausea, and cognitive difficulties. The fact that you experienced headaches that have persisted, along with dizziness and nausea, suggests that you may be experiencing post-concussive symptoms. It is essential to monitor these symptoms closely, as they can sometimes evolve or worsen over time.

Regarding your concern about intracranial bleeding, such as a subdural hematoma or epidural hematoma, it is important to note that these conditions can occur after head trauma, even if the initial injury seems minor. Symptoms of intracranial bleeding can include severe headaches, confusion, weakness, or changes in consciousness. However, the mild nature of your headaches and the absence of severe symptoms like confusion or loss of consciousness are reassuring. Nonetheless, if you experience any sudden changes in your symptoms, such as a severe headache that feels different from your usual pain, difficulty speaking, weakness in your limbs, or any other alarming symptoms, you should seek immediate medical attention.

Your ongoing headache, particularly localized to the temples and the back of the head, could also be tension-type headaches or even migraine-related headaches, especially if they are triggered by stress or other factors. Stress is a well-known trigger for headaches, and if you have been under pressure, it could certainly contribute to your symptoms. It’s also worth considering that the initial trauma might have led to muscle tension in your neck and shoulders, which can further exacerbate headache symptoms.

In terms of management, it is crucial to prioritize rest and avoid activities that could exacerbate your symptoms, such as prolonged screen time or strenuous physical activity. Over-the-counter pain relief, if you are comfortable with it, can also help manage your headaches. However, since you mentioned you prefer not to take medication, focusing on relaxation techniques, hydration, and proper sleep hygiene may be beneficial.

If your symptoms persist or worsen, it would be advisable to follow up with a healthcare provider, ideally a neurologist, who can perform a thorough evaluation. They may recommend imaging studies, such as a CT scan, to rule out any serious injuries if there is a concern about intracranial bleeding or other complications.

In summary, while your symptoms may be related to the initial head injury, they could also be influenced by stress or other factors. Monitoring your symptoms closely and seeking medical advice if they change or worsen is essential. Remember, it’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to head injuries.

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