Post-Concussion Fatigue: Symptoms and When to Seek Help

Feeling fatigued one month after a fall?

On May 4th, I had a motorcycle accident and was wearing a three-quarter helmet at the time.
There was no external injury or bleeding to my brain, but I primarily injured my chin.
I was hospitalized for a week, and the diagnosis indicated a mild concussion.
Initially, I didn't have many issues, but about a month later, I started feeling extremely fatigued all day.
Although I am getting enough sleep, it doesn't seem to relieve the fatigue.
I would like to know if this is a residual effect.
Should I seek medical evaluation, or will resting for a while help alleviate the symptoms on its own? Thank you, doctor.
🙏

Tian, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/07/11

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology

Hello, based on your description, generally speaking, if there is no loss of consciousness, use of anticoagulants, or obvious local hematomas, head injuries are mostly minor.
However, the following conditions should prompt consideration of delayed bleeding and a visit to the emergency room: (1) Deterioration of vision, seeing double (diplopia), or unequal pupil size.
(2) Watery fluid or blood leaking from the ears or nose.
(3) Confusion or abnormal behavior.
(4) Numbness or inability to move limbs.
(5) Localized involuntary movements or seizures.
You mentioned feeling fatigued throughout the day; aside from medical conditions, it may be worth considering side effects from muscle relaxants or sleep disorders.
If symptoms persist, it is advisable to consult a neurologist for further evaluation.
Wishing you good health and peace.
Dr.
Jiang from Taoyuan Medical Center cares about you.

Reply Date: 2020/07/11

More Info

Post-concussion fatigue is a common symptom that can occur after a concussion, even if the initial injury seemed mild and there were no visible signs of trauma to the brain. It’s important to understand that a concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury (TBI) that can lead to a variety of physical, cognitive, and emotional symptoms. Fatigue is one of the most frequently reported issues following a concussion, and it can persist for weeks or even months after the initial injury.

In your case, since you experienced a concussion on May 4th and are now reporting persistent fatigue about a month later, it is possible that this fatigue is related to your concussion. Post-concussion syndrome (PCS) can manifest with a range of symptoms, including fatigue, headaches, difficulty concentrating, irritability, and sleep disturbances. Even if you are getting enough sleep, the quality of that sleep may be affected by your brain's recovery process, leading to feelings of exhaustion.

It is crucial to listen to your body. If you are experiencing ongoing fatigue that is not improving, it is advisable to seek medical attention. A healthcare professional can evaluate your symptoms and determine if further investigation is needed. They may recommend a neurological examination, cognitive testing, or imaging studies to rule out any complications or other underlying issues.

In addition to seeking medical advice, there are several strategies you can implement to help manage post-concussion fatigue:
1. Rest and Recovery: Allow your brain time to heal. This includes both physical rest and cognitive rest. Limit activities that require intense concentration, such as reading, using screens, or engaging in complex problem-solving.

2. Gradual Return to Activity: Once you feel ready, gradually reintroduce physical and cognitive activities. Start with light activities and slowly increase intensity as tolerated. Pay attention to how your body responds.

3. Sleep Hygiene: Ensure you are practicing good sleep hygiene. This includes maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, creating a restful environment, and avoiding stimulants like caffeine close to bedtime.

4. Hydration and Nutrition: Stay hydrated and eat a balanced diet rich in nutrients that support brain health, such as omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamins.

5. Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Engage in mindfulness practices, meditation, or gentle yoga to help manage stress and promote relaxation.

6. Support System: Reach out to friends, family, or support groups who can provide emotional support and understanding during your recovery.

In conclusion, while post-concussion fatigue can be a normal part of recovery, it is essential to monitor your symptoms closely. If the fatigue persists or worsens, or if you experience any new symptoms such as severe headaches, confusion, or changes in mood, do not hesitate to seek medical attention. Early intervention can help facilitate a smoother recovery process and ensure that any potential complications are addressed promptly. Your health and well-being are paramount, so take the necessary steps to care for yourself during this recovery period.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Concussion Symptoms After a Head Injury in Sports

If you have a concussion, you may experience the following symptoms: headache, confusion, dizziness, nausea, balance problems, sensitivity to light or noise, difficulty concentrating, memory issues, and changes in sleep patterns. It's important to monitor these symptoms and ...

Dr. Huang Yongquan reply Neurology
The first 72 hours after a head injury are the most critical observation period. If there is severe headache or dizziness, drowsiness or altered consciousness, difficulty concentrating or personality changes, persistent nausea, vomiting, vertigo, weakness in the limbs, slurred sp...

Understanding Post-Concussion Symptoms: When to Seek Further Medical Help

Hello doctor, two years ago I fell off my bicycle and hit my head hard against the concrete. At first, I thought I was fine and didn't pay much attention, but afterwards, I would often wake up at night feeling dizzy. I went to a large hospital for a CT scan, and the doctor s...

Dr. Lan Shengxing reply Neurology
Dear Keke, the symptoms you mentioned may not necessarily be unrelated to a concussion. Please go to the hospital for an examination. Best, Lan Shengxing.

Understanding Post-Concussion Symptoms: When to Seek Medical Attention

Hello, doctor. On January 2, 2019, I was involved in a motorcycle accident where I collided with another vehicle, causing me to be thrown off and hit my head. I don't remember whether my knee, buttocks, or head was the first point of impact. I did not lose consciousness at t...

Dr. Zhang Junwei reply Neurosurgery
It is important to monitor whether the current symptoms worsen or persist without improvement. Generally, such symptoms tend to improve with adequate rest. If there is no improvement, a consultation with a neurosurgery outpatient clinic should be scheduled for further evaluation ...

Understanding Head Injuries: Symptoms, Risks, and When to Seek Help

Due to frequent roughhousing among classmates, the neck has often been subjected to heavy impacts. Initially, it was not taken seriously, but recently after being struck, there has been a persistent feeling of drowsiness, akin to just waking up. Bright lights are easily blinding,...

Dr. Ye Boshou reply Neurology
Traumatic brain injury and concussion can present with neurological symptoms such as weakness, vomiting, altered consciousness, and confusion. What you described does not seem to be related to a concussion or injury, nor is it associated with IQ. However, if the feeling of lethar...