Severe Head Pain After Forceful Pressure: Possible Causes and Treatments

Head compression?

Hello, doctor.
I was pressed hard on the top of my head for 20 minutes, and it has been five days since then.
I have been experiencing severe headaches in my forehead, both sides of my head, the back of my skull, neck, and temples, with a constant feeling of my head wanting to split open.
I cannot think clearly; any attempt to think makes the pain worse.
My symptoms include excessive sleepiness, dizziness, forgetfulness, and I have trouble remembering directions, leading to unsteady walking and falls.
A few days ago, I accidentally jumped up, and I felt something vibrating inside my head, along with blurred vision.
I also feel a vibration in my head when I walk quickly.
Could this be intracranial bleeding? Does jumping or walking quickly worsen the risk of brain bleeding? Is it safe for me to exercise? I have heard that subdural hematomas can be chronic, and I am very worried about that.
I usually consume medicinal soups (including traditional Chinese medicine); is it okay to continue? What are the treatment options? How long will the headache last?

Dana, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/06/03

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery

If there is no trauma, it is mostly not traumatic intracranial hemorrhage.
Spontaneous intracranial hemorrhage, such as from a ruptured aneurysm, would not present with headache symptoms alone.
It is recommended that you consult a neurologist for a more professional answer.

Reply Date: 2019/06/03

More Info

Severe head pain following forceful pressure on the head can be alarming and may indicate a serious underlying condition. Based on your description, the symptoms you are experiencing—intense pain in various areas of the head, dizziness, memory issues, and balance problems—warrant immediate medical attention.
The forceful pressure applied to your head could potentially lead to several complications, including but not limited to intracranial hemorrhage (bleeding within the skull), concussion, or other forms of traumatic brain injury. Intracranial hemorrhage can manifest as a result of trauma, and symptoms may include severe headache, confusion, dizziness, and visual disturbances. Given that you have experienced persistent headaches, dizziness, and cognitive difficulties, it is crucial to rule out any serious conditions such as subdural hematoma or other forms of bleeding.

Regarding your specific concerns about whether jumping or walking quickly could exacerbate a potential brain bleed, it is important to note that any sudden movements or increases in intracranial pressure could potentially worsen an existing condition if there is indeed bleeding. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid strenuous activities until you have been evaluated by a healthcare professional.

As for your question about whether you can continue consuming herbal remedies or traditional medicines, it is best to consult with a healthcare provider. Some herbal ingredients may interact with medications or could potentially affect your condition, especially if you are experiencing symptoms related to intracranial pressure or bleeding.

In terms of treatment, the first step is to seek immediate medical evaluation. A healthcare provider may recommend imaging studies such as a CT scan or MRI to assess for any bleeding or structural abnormalities in the brain. If a diagnosis of intracranial hemorrhage is confirmed, treatment may involve monitoring, medication to control symptoms, or surgical intervention depending on the severity and location of the bleed.

The duration of your headache and recovery will depend on the underlying cause. If it is due to a mild injury or tension-type headache, it may resolve within days to weeks with appropriate management. However, if there is a more serious issue, the recovery time could be significantly longer and may require specialized treatment.

In summary, your symptoms are concerning and should not be taken lightly. It is imperative to seek medical attention as soon as possible to determine the cause of your symptoms and to receive appropriate treatment. Avoid any activities that could increase your risk of further injury or exacerbate your symptoms until you have been evaluated by a healthcare professional.

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