Head Injury After a Fall: What to Do About Dizziness and Neck Pain

Q: Head Injury After a Fall: What to Do About Dizziness and Neck Pain

Dear Ms. <br>Sa： Based on your description, I will address two parts： (1) For head trauma, it is unavoidable to experience dizziness and headaches after a blow to the head. <br>However, since your consciousness was clear at the time and there were no accompanying symptoms such as

Slipped and hit the right occipital region of the head?

Hello, doctor.
I am currently abroad and unable to visit a hospital.
Yesterday, I accidentally slipped and hit my head.
At the time, I was conscious and able to get up on my own.
There is a small bump on my head, and I initially thought it was nothing serious.
However, this morning I woke up with brief episodes of dizziness and nausea, as well as stiffness and pain in my left neck (I can turn my head, but there is noticeable stiffness and pain when sitting up or lying down).
What should I do?

Sa, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/08/03

Dr. Lin Ruixiang reply Rehabilitation

Dear Ms.
Sa: Based on your description, I will address two parts: (1) For head trauma, it is unavoidable to experience dizziness and headaches after a blow to the head.
However, since your consciousness was clear at the time and there were no accompanying symptoms such as vomiting in the following two hours, the likelihood of significant intracranial hemorrhage requiring surgery is low.
Nonetheless, caution is always advisable, and I have attached precautions for patients with head injuries.
(2) Regarding your neck issue, as long as there are no symptoms of cervical nerve compression (radiating to the shoulders and arms), it can be treated as a general strain, and you may take oral medication for pain relief.
However, if you experience any neurological symptoms such as radiation, it is essential to seek medical attention.
The Hualien Hospital of the Ministry of Health and Welfare cares about your health.

Reply Date: 2019/08/03

More Info

Experiencing dizziness and neck pain after a head injury can be concerning, especially following a fall. It’s important to understand the potential implications of your symptoms and what steps you should take to address them.

First and foremost, the symptoms you are describing—dizziness, nausea, and neck pain—can be indicative of a concussion or other forms of head trauma. Even if you felt fine immediately after the fall, it is not uncommon for symptoms to develop hours or even days later. Dizziness and nausea can occur due to a variety of reasons, including increased intracranial pressure, vestibular dysfunction, or even neck strain from the impact.

The neck pain you are experiencing could be related to whiplash or muscle strain, which can occur even if your head did not hit the ground directly. The sudden movement of your head and neck during the fall can lead to soft tissue injuries, which may cause stiffness and pain. The fact that you feel stiffness and pain when transitioning from lying down to sitting up suggests that there may be some muscular or possibly nerve involvement in your neck.

Given that you are currently abroad and may not have immediate access to a hospital, here are some steps you can take:
1. Rest: Allow your body to recover. Avoid any strenuous activities that could exacerbate your symptoms.

2. Hydration: Ensure you are drinking plenty of fluids. Dehydration can worsen dizziness and headaches.

3. Ice Therapy: Apply ice to the swollen area on your head for 15-20 minutes every hour as needed. This can help reduce swelling and numb the pain.

4. Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation. However, be cautious with medications, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking other medications.

5. Monitor Symptoms: Keep a close eye on your symptoms. If you experience worsening dizziness, persistent vomiting, severe headache, confusion, or any other concerning symptoms, it is crucial to seek medical attention as soon as possible.

6. Neck Care: For your neck pain, gentle stretching and heat therapy may help alleviate stiffness. However, avoid any movements that cause significant pain.

7. Gradual Movement: When getting up from lying down, do so slowly to minimize dizziness. Sit on the edge of the bed for a moment before standing up.

8. Seek Medical Attention: If your symptoms do not improve within a few days, or if they worsen, it is essential to seek medical attention. A healthcare professional can perform a thorough evaluation, which may include imaging studies to rule out any serious injuries such as fractures or bleeding.

In summary, while it is possible that your symptoms may resolve with conservative management, it is essential to remain vigilant. Head injuries can have delayed effects, and monitoring your condition closely is crucial. If you have access to a healthcare provider, even for a telemedicine consultation, it would be wise to discuss your symptoms with them. Your health and safety should always be the priority, and seeking professional advice is the best course of action when dealing with head injuries.

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