Head Injuries: Signs, Symptoms, and Care After a Hit

The right occipital region was struck?

1.
Today, I hit the back right side of my head against a pole.
At the moment of impact, I was conscious and there were no obvious external injuries.
Should I be concerned about a brain hemorrhage?
2.
How can I determine the severity of a head injury to know if I need to go to the hospital?
3.
After hitting my head, how should I monitor my condition, and how long should I observe to ensure that everything is okay?
4.
What level of impact is typically required to cause a brain hemorrhage?
5.
How should I care for myself after a head injury to promote faster recovery?
6.
What important areas of the brain are located in the back right side of the head? Thank you very much for your answers, doctor.

Wu Yan, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/09/25

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology

Hello, based on your description, generally speaking, if there is no loss of consciousness, use of anticoagulants, or obvious localized hematoma, head trauma is mostly mild.
However, the following conditions warrant consideration of delayed bleeding and require a visit to the emergency room: (1) Deterioration of vision, seeing double (diplopia), or unequal pupil size.
(2) Clear 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.
Older adults with brain atrophy, chronic alcoholics, epilepsy patients, or those with coagulation disorders, including those on anticoagulants, are more susceptible to delayed intracranial hemorrhage.

5.
How should one care for a head injury to promote faster recovery? A: Apply ice locally within 48 hours to reduce subcutaneous hematoma.

6.
What important areas of the brain are included in the right occipital region? A: It includes the visual area of the occipital lobe and the cerebellum in the posterior cranial fossa.

Wishing you good health, safety, and happiness.
Dr.
Jiang from Taoyuan Medical Center cares about you.

Reply Date: 2020/09/25

More Info

Understanding head injuries is crucial, especially after experiencing a trauma. Your questions touch on several important aspects of head injuries, including the potential for serious complications like intracranial bleeding, how to assess the severity of an injury, and the appropriate care following a head impact.

1. Concerning the possibility of intracranial bleeding: If you hit your head and are conscious without any visible external injuries, it does not automatically mean you will experience a brain bleed. However, symptoms to watch for include severe headache, confusion, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, or any changes in consciousness. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is essential to seek medical attention immediately.

2. Determining when to seek medical help: After a head injury, you should consider going to the hospital if you experience any of the following:
- Loss of consciousness, even briefly
- Persistent or worsening headache
- Confusion or difficulty concentrating
- Nausea or vomiting
- Weakness or numbness in any part of your body
- Seizures
- Clear fluid or blood leaking from the nose or ears
- Changes in vision or speech
3. Observation period: It is generally recommended to monitor for at least 24 hours after a head injury. During this time, have someone stay with you to observe for any concerning symptoms. If you notice any of the symptoms mentioned above, seek medical care immediately.

4. Force required for intracranial bleeding: The amount of force needed to cause a brain bleed can vary widely depending on individual factors such as the person’s age, health, and the specific area of the head that was impacted. Generally, a significant impact, such as a fall from a height or a collision, can lead to serious injuries. However, even minor bumps can sometimes result in complications, so it’s essential to remain vigilant.

5. Care after a head injury: After a head injury, it is crucial to rest and avoid strenuous activities. Here are some care tips:
- Rest: Ensure you get plenty of sleep and avoid physical exertion.

- Hydration: Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.

- Pain management: Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen can help manage headaches, but avoid NSAIDs like ibuprofen or aspirin initially, as they can increase bleeding risk.

- Avoid screens: Limit time spent on computers, phones, or watching TV, as this can exacerbate symptoms.

- Gradual return to activities: Once you feel better, gradually return to normal activities, but listen to your body and avoid pushing yourself too hard.

6. Anatomy of the right posterior brain: The right posterior part of the brain includes several critical areas, such as the occipital lobe, which is primarily responsible for visual processing, and parts of the cerebellum, which are involved in coordination and balance. Injury to these areas can lead to visual disturbances, coordination issues, or balance problems.

In conclusion, head injuries require careful monitoring and appropriate care. If you have any doubts about your symptoms or recovery, it is always best to consult a healthcare professional. They can provide a thorough evaluation and ensure that you receive the necessary treatment to prevent complications. Remember, when in doubt, it’s better to err on the side of caution and seek medical advice.

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