Head Pain: Possible Causes After a Recent Accident

Head issues

Hello Doctor, I would like to ask about some recent symptoms.
I've been experiencing some headaches in the left posterior part of my head (sometimes other areas hurt, but not often).
The pain is not severe; it comes in waves and usually focuses on one point.
Sometimes, I don't feel any pain at all, and I often feel fatigued.
What could be the issue? About a month ago, I was in a car accident where my head hit the ground first (I was wearing a helmet).
I did not lose consciousness, and the impact was on the right side.
An X-ray taken that day showed no fractures, and a CT scan a week later showed no bleeding.
Thank you, Doctor.

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/02/22

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology

Hello, based on your description, it may be necessary to consider cervical myofascial pain.
During head trauma, the neck muscles can sustain injuries due to external forces.
If the cervical spine is improperly used at this time, such as by looking down while using electronic devices, it can lead to overuse of the trapezius muscle in the neck, resulting in neck and shoulder pain.
Initially, resting may alleviate the pain, but eventually, it can worsen and affect daily activities.

I recommend the following:
1.
Change Positions: Change your posture every 15 minutes to allow the neck tissues to rest.
Any position (including a normal one) maintained for an extended period can lead to fatigue and inflammation, so moving around briefly can reduce the risk of muscle inflammation.
2.
Rest: Rest is essential to allow the muscles to utilize their self-repair capabilities.
Avoid vigorous exercise during this time.
3.
Neck Heat Therapy: Apply heat for 15 to 20 minutes, ensuring the temperature is safe to avoid burns.
4.
Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): If you do not have a history of peptic ulcers, allergies to NSAIDs, or impaired kidney function, you may consider using NSAIDs to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain as needed.
5.
Neck Muscle Stretching Exercises: After the acute pain phase, it is advisable to develop a habit of performing slow and gentle neck stretches every 15 to 20 minutes, ensuring the angles do not cause discomfort.

I suggest consulting with a neurologist or a rehabilitation physician for further evaluation and treatment.
Wishing you good health and peace.

Dr.
Jiang, Department of Neurology, Taoyuan Hospital, cares for you.

Reply Date: 2020/02/22

More Info

Head pain can be a complex issue, especially following a recent accident. Given your description of the pain localized to the left posterior part of your head, coupled with feelings of fatigue, it is essential to consider several potential causes, particularly in the context of your recent car accident.

Firstly, it’s important to note that even with a helmet and no loss of consciousness, head injuries can still lead to various types of pain and discomfort. The fact that you had X-rays and a CT scan that showed no fractures or bleeding is reassuring, but it does not completely rule out other complications that can arise from head trauma.

One common condition that can occur after a head injury is post-concussion syndrome. This syndrome can manifest with a variety of symptoms, including headaches, fatigue, dizziness, and cognitive difficulties. The headaches associated with post-concussion syndrome can vary in intensity and may feel like a pressure or tightness in the head, which aligns with your description of the pain being "not severe" but rather "intermittent" and concentrated in one area.

Another possibility is tension-type headaches, which can be triggered by stress or muscle tension in the neck and shoulders, especially following a traumatic event. The stress of the accident, combined with any physical tension from the impact, could lead to muscle tightness that contributes to your headaches. These headaches often present as a dull, aching sensation and can be exacerbated by fatigue or lack of sleep.

Additionally, it’s worth considering the psychological impact of the accident. Anxiety and stress can lead to physical symptoms, including headaches. If you find yourself feeling more fatigued or stressed since the accident, this could be contributing to your symptoms.

Given that your headaches are not severe and you have had appropriate imaging studies, it may be beneficial to focus on lifestyle modifications. Ensuring you get adequate rest, managing stress through relaxation techniques, and maintaining good hydration can be helpful. Regular physical activity, as tolerated, can also improve overall well-being and reduce headache frequency.

However, if your symptoms persist or worsen, or if you experience new symptoms such as visual disturbances, significant changes in mood, or cognitive difficulties, it is crucial to seek further evaluation from a healthcare professional. A neurologist may conduct additional assessments to rule out any underlying conditions that may not have been evident in the initial imaging studies.

In summary, while your recent head pain could be related to the trauma from your accident, it is essential to monitor your symptoms closely. Engaging in self-care strategies and consulting with a healthcare provider if your condition does not improve will be key to managing your health effectively.

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