Post-Concussion Symptoms: Seeking Expert Advice

Q: Post-Concussion Symptoms: Seeking Expert Advice

Hello： It is recommended that you seek treatment at the same hospital for more comprehensive information. <br>If there are physical injuries caused by trauma, you may consider adding hyperbaric oxygen therapy to accelerate the body's healing process. <br>Hyperbaric oxygen therapy

Dr. Cheng, I would like to ask you again?

Hello, since my head was injured from a collision on July 14, 2020, I have experienced dizziness, blurred vision, a feeling of pressure in my head, vomiting, numbness in my limbs, tongue numbness, left facial numbness, and high blood pressure above 141 during the emergency visit.
I cannot tolerate noise levels and speeds (such as from the MRT, high-speed rail, or conversations), and I have language difficulties.
To this day, I still experience tongue numbness, facial numbness, an inability to lie on my left side, and noticeable pressure in my head when using public transportation or driving on the highway.
A CT scan showed no abnormalities, but an EEG indicated irregularities.
When I asked the doctor about the causes, they mentioned that the facial and tongue numbness, along with my inability to immediately recognize past people and names, which seem familiar but I cannot recall, are concerning.
I often experience tinnitus in my left ear followed by headaches, with most symptoms occurring on the left side of my face.
I cannot lean my head against a wall or a hard pillow without feeling intense headaches and facial numbness.
However, the doctor could not provide an explanation.
I would like to ask Dr.
Jiang for any suggestions or assessments regarding my condition.
Additionally, should I undergo further examinations? Would an MRI provide answers? Thank you.
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Hello, based on your description, it seems that in addition to brain issues, we should also consider potential musculoskeletal problems in the neck.
The symptoms of facial and tongue numbness, along with difficulty recognizing familiar people and names, and the frequent left ear tinnitus followed by headaches, primarily affecting the left side of your face, suggest possible cervical spine issues.
The inability to lean your head against a wall or a hard pillow without experiencing severe headaches appears to be related to neck problems.
The CT scan of the brain primarily rules out issues like intracranial hemorrhage.
An MRI is more sensitive to structural changes in brain tissue and can detect widespread axonal injury and other subtle abnormalities (though this typically occurs in severe brain injuries; I'm unsure if you experienced any loss of consciousness or other serious injuries at that time).
I recommend consulting a neurologist to discuss further examinations and treatment options.
Wishing you good health and peace.
Dr.
Jiang from Taoyuan Medical Center cares about you.
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Hello Dr.
Jiang, I want to recover as soon as possible and would like to schedule a consultation with you.
However, the online appointments have been fully booked for a long time.
Is there any way I can schedule an appointment with you? Thank you!

victoria, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/12/23

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology

Hello: It is recommended that you seek treatment at the same hospital for more comprehensive information.
If there are physical injuries caused by trauma, you may consider adding hyperbaric oxygen therapy to accelerate the body's healing process.
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is widely used to treat various injuries, infections, and hypoxic conditions affecting body tissues and organs.
It is also utilized both domestically and internationally for treating post-traumatic brain injuries.
The principle of this treatment is that hyperbaric oxygen therapy can provide a higher concentration of oxygen to the damaged brain tissue, assisting in its recovery.
Additionally, hyperbaric oxygen can reduce brain swelling, thereby lowering intracranial pressure and minimizing ongoing damage to brain tissue.
If you are considering hyperbaric oxygen therapy, it is advisable to contact the hyperbaric center at this hospital for assistance with scheduling an appointment.
Wishing you good health and peace.
Dr.
Jiang, Department of Neurology, Taoyuan Hospital, cares about you.

Reply Date: 2020/12/23

More Info

Understanding post-concussion symptoms can be a complex and challenging journey, especially when symptoms persist long after the initial injury. Based on your detailed description of your experiences following the head injury on July 14, 2020, it seems you are dealing with a range of troubling symptoms, including dizziness, visual disturbances, nausea, numbness in your limbs and face, and cognitive difficulties such as trouble recalling names and recognizing familiar faces. These symptoms can significantly impact your daily life and overall well-being.

Post-concussion syndrome (PCS) is a condition that can occur after a concussion, where symptoms persist for weeks, months, or even longer after the initial injury. Common symptoms include headaches, dizziness, fatigue, irritability, anxiety, and cognitive difficulties. The fact that you have undergone a CT scan that showed no acute issues but have abnormal EEG findings suggests that there may be underlying neurological changes that need further exploration.

The symptoms you describe, particularly the facial and tongue numbness, could be indicative of several potential issues. While it is essential to rule out serious conditions such as intracranial hemorrhage or structural brain damage, your ongoing symptoms may also relate to cervical spine issues, especially if you are experiencing headaches that worsen with certain positions or movements. The neck can often be affected in head injuries, leading to referred pain and neurological symptoms.

Given your situation, it is crucial to continue seeking medical advice. An MRI could indeed provide more detailed information about the brain's structural integrity and help identify any subtle changes that a CT scan might miss. MRI is particularly useful for assessing soft tissue and can reveal issues such as diffuse axonal injury, which may not be apparent on a CT scan. Additionally, it can help evaluate the cervical spine for any potential injuries that could be contributing to your symptoms.

In terms of management, a multidisciplinary approach may be beneficial. This could include working with neurologists, physiotherapists, and possibly occupational therapists who specialize in concussion rehabilitation. Cognitive therapy may also be helpful in addressing the cognitive aspects of your recovery, particularly if you are experiencing memory issues.

It is also essential to address the psychological impact of your symptoms. Many individuals with PCS experience anxiety and depression due to the frustration and limitations caused by their symptoms. Engaging in supportive therapy or counseling can provide coping strategies and emotional support during your recovery.

If you are having difficulty scheduling an appointment with Dr. Jiang due to full bookings, consider reaching out to the clinic directly to inquire about waitlist options or cancellations. Many clinics maintain a waitlist for patients who are eager to be seen sooner, and expressing your urgency may help facilitate an earlier appointment.

In summary, your symptoms warrant thorough evaluation and a comprehensive treatment plan. Continue to advocate for your health, seek appropriate specialists, and consider all aspects of your recovery, including physical, cognitive, and emotional support. Your journey may be challenging, but with the right resources and support, improvement is possible.

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